In the last few years there has been a growing focus on the links between natural resources and conflict, especially in Africa. The United Nations has set up a panel of experts looking at the use of natural resources and conflict in the Congo; policy institutes including the International Institute of Strategic Studies in London, the International Peace Information Service in Antwerp and the International Peace Academy in New York have commissioned studies; and non-governmental organisations such as the UK’s Global Witness have campaigned on oil, diamonds and timber extraction. The World Bank’s Paul Collier has been a keen advocate of the idea of resources driving disputes.
Africa's Resources: Oil, Diamonds and Death
Diamonds, oil and other natural resources fuel conflict – especially in Africa. So goes one view of the situation. But is the relationship more complex and can multinational companies help stop the killing?
