In specific locations around the globe, revenue generated from mining certain minerals has been used to fund controversial activities, exacerbating regional conflicts. This course focuses on these 'Conflict Minerals,' past and present. Whether it be diamonds or the critical 3T's (tin, tungsten and tantalum) in central Africa, amber in Ukraine, or surprisingly, sand from many locations across the globe, illicit trade in these commodities not only funds weapon purchases, it also often feeds clandestine markets and exploits local labor, forcing vulnerable populations to work in unsafe conditions. Frequently mined from small, artisanal operations, conflict minerals have proven difficult to locate and regulate.

In specific locations around the globe, revenue generated from mining certain minerals has been used to fund controversial activities, exacerbating regional conflicts. This course focuses on these 'Conflict Minerals,' past and present. Whether it be diamonds or the critical 3T's (tin, tungsten and tantalum) in central Africa, amber in Ukraine, or surprisingly, sand from many locations across the globe, illicit trade in these commodities not only funds weapon purchases, it also often feeds clandestine markets and exploits local labor, forcing vulnerable populations to work in unsafe conditions. Frequently mined from small, artisanal operations, conflict minerals have proven difficult to locate and regulate.