The United States is assuming leadership of The Kimberely Process (KP)—the international group founded in 2003 that monitors blood diamond activity and certifies “conflict free” diamonds. This move comes shortly after a Human Rights group accused the Process of not operating properly.

The United States State Department has named Gillian Milovanovic to serve as chair for the KP for 2012. Milovanovic, a career diplomat and former U.S. ambassador to Mali and Macedonia with experience in the diamond producing nations of South Africa and Botswana, is the first woman to chair the KP.

The Kimberely Process has been criticized for being ineffectual and the rights group Global Witness left the organization in December, alleging the group had failed to live up to its mission. Last November, the KP sparked controversy by allowing Zimbabwe to export rough diamonds mined in a controversial mine field. Global Witness’ departure undermined the credibility of the Kimberely Process.

“The overriding goal of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme has been to protect the integrity of the diamond, so that it properly contributes to bettering the lives of ordinary people living in the areas in which it is mined and processed. The system is not perfect, and is in need of constant review," said World Diamond Council (WDC) President Eli Izhakoff.

Many view the U.S. takeover of the Kimberely Process as the last chance to restore credibility to the group.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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