The Kimberley Process

The Kimberley Process (KP) is an international certification scheme that regulates the trade in rough diamonds. Its objective is to protect the legal trade in rough diamonds by stemming the flow of conflict diamonds onto the global market. Established in 2003, the KP brings together its 82 member states twice a year. Participation in the KP requires states to meet certain minimum requirements regarding the processing of rough diamonds. The Kimberley Process is a tripartite system that includes civil society and industry as observers of the process implemented by member governments.

Each of the three pillars of the KP plays an important role: while only member governments have decision-making power, KP civil society observers are responsible for ensuring the smooth running of the process, and the industry pillar is responsible for providing technical advice and expertise. To facilitate the effective functioning of the KP, the civil society pillar consists of civil society organizations united in a coalition. This coalition provides a forum for discussion and formulation of positions supporting all civil society stakeholders on issues relevant to the KP.