KP Addresses Conflict-Diamond Definition

RAPAPORT… The Kimberley Process (KP) discussed plans for a reform
agenda at its intersessional meeting in Antwerp last week, including
broadening its definition of conflict diamonds.

“I believe the industry has expressed an unambiguous and
clear position,” acting president Stephane Fischler of the World Diamond
Council (WDC) — the group that represents the interests of the global
diamond industry within the KP — told Rapaport News in regard
to updating the definition. “We are endorsing a change in the scope of
the KP.” 

Other topics of discussion at the meeting were a deepening of
the KP, including the strengthening of the system of controls and transforming the KP’s recommendations into minimum requirements. Talks also covered the issue of professionalization of the KP by establishing a permanent KP secretariat — a United Nations-mandated
body to oversee excluded countries’ return to the diamond trade.

The intersessional featured discussions ahead of decisions the KP may make at its plenary meeting, which will take place in Brussels in November.

The fulfillment of this new agenda will be the start of
a “KP 2.0” —
a way for the KP to adapt to changing consumer demands, according to the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC).