A Vision for Change: WDC President’s Opening Address at the 2024 KP Plenary

A Vision for Change: WDC President’s Opening Address at the 2024 KP Plenary

13th November 2024

The diamond industry is at a pivotal crossroads, as highlighted by the opening address of World Diamond Council (WDC) President, Feriel Zerouki, at the 2024 Kimberley Process (KP) Plenary Meeting in Dubai. In a year marked by significant challenges, Zerouki underscored the need for decisive action and steadfast values, emphasizing that true leadership is demonstrated in moments of resistance and calls for reform

A Commitment to Fairness and Inclusion in Diamond Trade

Zerouki opened her address by reaffirming the WDC’s commitment to an equitable playing field, especially for African diamond-producing nations. For the WDC, supporting the KP goes beyond institutional or governmental interests; it impacts the lives and livelihoods of countless individuals and communities who depend on a sustainable and prosperous diamond industry. Despite external pressures, Zerouki emphasized the WDC’s resolve to protect the progress made over the past two decades.

Broadening the Definition of Conflict Diamonds

A key initiative for the WDC this year has been its mandate to lead the expansion of the conflict diamond definition within the KP framework. While the WDC and Civil Society Coalition have diligently worked to advance this initiative, Zerouki highlighted the importance of shared accountability. Achieving a more comprehensive definition demands active engagement from all KP participants, not passive critique or sideline commentary.

The geopolitical landscape, Zerouki noted, should not hinder essential reforms. Instead, it’s an opportunity for members to foster genuine communication and collaboration, which is fundamental to the integrity of the KP and its mandate to advance responsible diamond sourcing.

Milestones of Reform and Transparency

In 2024, the KP made notable strides toward reform under the WDC’s guidance. These include:

• Introduction of Co-Chairmanship: This change enables countries with varied economic backgrounds to share leadership within the KP, making the decision-making process more inclusive.
• Enhanced Transparency in Certification: KP certificates now list specific mining countries of origin, replacing mixed-origin certificates. This reform, achieved within a mere six months, showcases the impact of focused leadership.
• Establishment of a Permanent Secretariat in Botswana: This milestone, Zerouki highlighted, reflects the KP’s commitment to professionalism and sustainability.

Looking ahead, the WDC plans to explore digital KP certificates, aiming to boost transparency, responsible sourcing, and regulatory efficiency. Such advancements align with the council’s mission to create a fair, level playing field where responsibly sourced diamonds, particularly from African regions, thrive in the global market.

The Need for a Unified Approach

At the heart of Zerouki’s address was a call for unity. With the evolving global standards and consumer expectations around diamond sourcing, it’s imperative for the KP to adapt and modernize. The current narrow definition of conflict diamonds, largely influenced by private industry standards, limits the KP’s effectiveness and risks undermining its foundational principles. Zerouki stressed that for the KP to remain a trusted institution, all members must support efforts to strengthen its framework, ensuring equitable access and success across all participating nations.

Building a Legacy of Integrity and Progress

As the industry’s self-proclaimed guardians, Zerouki urged attendees to carry forward the commitment to transparency, integrity, and impactful change. “This week can be one of those moments where our actions shape the future,” she stated passionately. She left her audience with a vision: a future where the KP continues to serve as a symbol of trust and sets the standard for responsibility in the diamond industry.

In closing, Zerouki called on her colleagues to focus on what unites them, underscoring the urgency and potential of this plenary session. With collaborative action, the diamond industry can ensure that the Kimberley Process remains a pillar of trust, integrity, and sustainability—values as enduring as the diamonds themselves.