Conflict diamonds are diamonds illegally traded to fund conflict in war-torn areas, particularly in central and western Africa. These diamonds are also referred to as blood diamonds.

Because they are portable, easily hidden, and difficult to trace, diamonds are an easy target for smuggling and corruption.

Warlords in several underdeveloped African countries have forced tens of thousands of people to mine diamonds in brutal conditions, while using the proceeds to buy weapons.

In Sierra Leone, rebels amputated people's limbs, lips, and ears; abducted children to serve in their armies while plying them with cocaine; and raped and murdered innocent villagers for years during a civil war financed in part by the illicit diamond trade.

Because of our deep connection with Sierra Leone through long-term missions and development, the CRC became especially involved in this urgent issue.  You can learn more in the Tool Box to the right.