Precious Gems and Minerals: The Traffic in Conflict Commodities

• In Event: Organized Crimes Relating to Cultural Products, Natural Resources and the Environment

Abstract

Lapis Lazuli, jade, gold, and precious minerals are prime examples of what may be appropriately labeled "conflict commodities." Like diamonds and ivory, these natural resources are used by transnational organized criminals, militias, private entrepreneurs, and state actors (including military personnel) to generate illicit revenue and finance regional wars. This paper describes the dimensions of the various illicit traffics, with an emphasis on public corruption, human rights abuses, and the robbing of natural resource wealth from legitimate stakeholders. Ameliorative possibilities will be discussed.

Author

• Don Liddick, Pennsylvania State University, Fayette