On 13 July 2026, the European Union delivered a statement at a UN Arria-formula meeting on normative gaps linking natural resources and peace, arguing that critical raw materials should become drivers of sustainable development rather than sources of conflict. The statement, delivered by the EU Delegation to the UN in New York, stressed the need for greater coherence and interoperability among existing international standards, while warning against duplicative reporting and due diligence requirements.
The EU highlighted its own Conflict Minerals Regulation, adopted in 2017 and operational since 1 January 2021, as a key tool to prevent trade in conflict minerals from funding armed conflicts. The bloc also pointed to its Raw Materials partnerships with third countries and Global Gateway investments, such as the Lobito Corridor, as models for ensuring producing countries derive greater value from their resources through local value addition and capacity-building.
On conflict diamonds, the EU reaffirmed its commitment to the Kimberley Process, noting it has funded around €10 million in projects to reinforce governance in the diamond sector and develop alternative livelihoods, including through the Mano River Union and in the Central African Republic. The EU has been an active supporter of reforming the Kimberley Process to broaden the definition of conflict diamonds and keep the certification scheme relevant.
The statement endorsed the UN Panel's report on "resourcing the energy transition" and its Principle 7, which calls for multilateral cooperation to underpin global action and promote peace and security. The EU also looked forward to an upcoming open debate on the issue at the UN Security Council.
The EU's push for coherence may reduce administrative burdens for companies already complying with multiple due diligence frameworks, but could also raise compliance costs for smaller operators in the extractive sector. Producing countries stand to benefit from increased investment and capacity-building under EU partnerships, though they may face pressure to meet higher governance standards. Conflict-affected communities could see improved livelihoods if the Kimberley Process reform succeeds in cutting militia funding. The EU itself reinforces its role as a norm-setter in the nexus of natural resources, peace and security.