"Cobalt Red": Smartphones & Electric Cars Rely on Toxic Mineral Mined in Congo by Children

The Democratic Republic of the Congo produces nearly three-quarters of the world's cobalt, an essential component in rechargeable batteries powering laptops, smartphones and electric vehicles. But those who dig up the valuable mineral often work in horrific and dangerous conditions, says Siddharth Kara, an international expert on modern-day slavery and author of _Cobalt Red: How the Blood of the Congo Powers Our Lives_. In an in-depth interview, he says the major technology companies that rely on this cobalt from DRC to make their products are turning a blind eye to the human toll and falsely claiming their supply chains are free from abuse, including widespread child labor. "The public health catastrophe on top of the human rights violence on top of the environmental destruction is unlike anything we've ever seen in the modern context," says Kara. "The fact that it is linked to companies worth trillions and that our lives depend on this enormous violence has to be dealt with."
Transcript: www.democracynow.org/2023/7/1...
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[@youngeagle5953]

“The colonialists care nothing for Africa for her own sake. They are attracted by African riches and their actions are guided by the desire to preserve their interests in Africa against the wishes of the African people. For the colonialists all means are good if they help them to possess these riches”. Patrice Lumumba, Speech at the All-African Conference in Leopoldville August, 1960.

[@olliemck60]

Exactly, the Africans had the minerals and land, Colonialists the religion and gunpowder, now Africans have religion, and Colonialists have minerals and gunpowder. The moral of this story is to get gunpowder.

[@Arulane]

Thank you. I had heard of Mr. Lumamba as a child. I had never heard the quote before.

[@olliemck60]

@@Arulane The Congo would be a different more progressive place if Colonialists had not killed Lumumba. Any African leader that could not be bought will be killed. The CIA and Belgian authorities were complicit in his death. The USA must be made to change its policies in Africa, and actually in the whole world. We need to fight inequality and greed everywhere, starting right here at home.

[@ronsanchez6992]

Ghana just signed up with China's Belt and Road program to help them dig minerals up for China's vast technology sector. And EVs are being pushed as progress.

[@olliemck60]

@@ronsanchez6992 EVs are progress, colonial exploitation is not. You can have EVs without exploitation, EVs are not the problem greed is! It would be the same thing with bananas.

[@diamondsndregs]

My 14yo son asked for rechargeable batteries this summer because he's very concerned about all the waste we create (as am I). And now this report makes clear that rechargeable batteries come at another terrible cost. Everywhere we turn, we learn of another deeply disheartening truth of how we contribute to world suffering, all because the people in power don't care.

[@Ianpact]

But it doesn't have too. We could pay those people good wages and give them protections. These corporations and governments choose not too and we the people are too divided to make them.

[@matham625]

no.. they do care.. about making money

[@kocoachocolate8480]

This makes me so angry cause here I am supposed ungratefully living my best life and people are really sacrificing them selves for me to enjoy this like it's ridiculous

[@spooky_zen]

there will be a brighter day but we need to rise up in order to see it

[@serinadelmar6012]

You can still get cobalt sourced from countries who do not by cobalt from countries abusing human rights and child slavery/human rights violations. It is heartbreaking that so many of the largest companies really don’t care however.

[@weirdshibainu]

I do global supply chain management. Trust me, the senior management in companies are well aware of the nature of the sourcing of input materials. The use of third party "cutout" companies that will provide "proper documentation" is common. Tim Cook was confronted by a reporter on the subject of cobalt mining and he literally turned his back on the reporter and walked away like a coward.

[@kay-collins]

Yep. Anybody who thinks otherwise is just lying to themselves at this point. We’ve seen time & time again plenty of proof that they always know, they know about this, the sweat shops, they’re not ignorant to it at all, & we’ve seen proof of this over & over. They know & they absolutely do NOT care as long as it keeps lining their pockets! There’s no way anyone can claim anymore that they don’t know. I really don’t understand why the entire world doesn’t revolt against the cruel leaders “governing” us ALL. They are seemingly ALL corrupt & they need to start doing their own dirt, making their own money, fighting their own worlds. Put them in the ring & let them go head to head. We need to stop doing their bidding in any & every way.

[@urmbero452]

Will this ever change? I would say no! Why? Because the demand is becoming greater!

[@AmberwingArt]

What can we as the consumers do to help?? What choices can we make that can make a difference? How can we help the children of the Congo? This is heartbreaking and it's the first I've heard of this. 😔

[@JohnMoseley]

Commenters upthread are saying Samsung smartphones are manufactured in Vietnam using Australian cobalt, which is mined to higher safety and environmental standards. Another suggestion is to change your phone only when necessary. I had my first smartphone for 12 years. But consumer choice can't do much, especially when industry systematically encourages, even forces higher consumption by making phones that can't be upgraded so as to be able to receive new software updates or install new apps.

[@Amor1990]

Don’t vote Democrat to start. Then we can push out the RINOS from the R party & then finally work towards equality

[@andreikoto4810]

You can't go around without a phone these days but the least each end-customer can do, and it would be responsible, is to use the gadgets until they break instead of updating them to a newer version every 6 months or so. These "trendy", "cool" products are unnecessary. And on the bigger scale, the "developed" world needs to awake from the consumerist mindset.

[@genxray]

We need to consume less and do not fall for all the "green" marketing as these corporations market to our fears.

[@rosedavenport5104]

Protest let everyone you know, know

[@weltenrandwanderer2626]

oh god, I was aware that the conditions were bad. I was not aware that the conditions are this horrific. Thank you to the whole team for reporting these issues and expanding my horizon again and again.

[@david5544g]

Do you use batteries?

[@user-ti3vy4mf6p]

This can be fixed to help these children, they don't want to fix it. Guess what, wait until the Real Jesus shows up. Just because you don't believe,🙏🏽🙏🏽👑 That will not stop 🛑 His return. Euphrates......

[@david5544g]

@@user-ti3vy4mf6p You can't fix the problem... It's been going on forever and will continue somewhere... By the way, I don't want to go down this rabbit hole, but what is the Real Jesus? I thought there was only one?

[@user-ti3vy4mf6p]

@@david5544g The problem is part of the solution. New PLANETs are on their way and people on the new earth and heaven ❤️ reigning forever. To appreciate goodness one must experience suffering. A rich man has little appreciation because he is choked 🙏🏽 with his Riches if you have 2000 pairs of shoes 👟 what difference would a gift of shoes be to him,? The meek shall inherit the Earth. The proud shall be brought low. 🙏🏽❤️❤️⚓

[@user-ti3vy4mf6p]

@@david5544g The world 🌎 ended in the days of Noah and nobody believed Noah and laughed at Him when he was building the Ark. Today the schools educate your child for indoctrination or prison pipelines by way of standardized tests and special Ed evaluation. How you going to classify a first grader as learning disabled. Give me a break. Give the child a break 😭. Einstein didn't start reading until in his early teens. When a young lady was classified as learning disabled, a compassionate teacher took her under her wings and this young lady became a Principal. ❤️

[@Terrestrial]

The reporting from Democracy Now! is top-notch. There is so much to repair in our world.

[@bindaredundat-uv6wz]

i have written a very powerful worded letter to those companies! things should change soon !!

[@sassybrown8195]

Lord please help 🙌🙌🙌

[@dariusrus5335]

​@@bindaredundat-uv6wz😂😂😂😂

[@tuforu4]

Tell about GRACE MUGABE ANOTHER TYRANT.

[@ambition112]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="11">0:11</a>: 💔 The increasing reliance on Cobalt for mobile phones and electric cars has had a devastating impact on the Congo, where nearly three quarters of the world's supply is mined under horrific conditions. <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="268">4:28</a>: 😢 The southeastern part of the Congo is experiencing massive industrial mining operations, leading to the displacement of the local population and the exploitation of thousands of children in artisanal mining. <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="535">8:55</a>: 💔 The mining of Cobalt in the Congo by corporations like Apple, Tesla, Google, Microsoft, and Samsung involves exploitation, hazardous conditions, and child labor, while the Congolese people suffer at the bottom of the supply chain. <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="737">12:17</a>: 💔 The conditions of cobalt mining in the Congo are extremely dangerous and harmful to the Congolese people and the environment. <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1018">16:58</a>: 🔍 China has played a major role in the Cobalt mining industry in the Congo, controlling a significant portion of production and supply chain. <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1228">20:28</a>: 💔 The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has faced a history of neocolonial exploitation and corrupt leadership, hindering its chance at freedom and development. <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1448">24:08</a>: 💔 The global economy has transformed the suffering and degradation of Congolese children into the shiny gadgets and cars we rely on every day. Recap by Tammy AI

[@bindaredundat-uv6wz]

While typing that statement on your cobalt-infused phone! lol you people are funny !!

[@ashton1952]

​​@@bindaredundat-uv6wzit's ok using the technology; but the 1st world and it's big companies must pay good salaries to the people who mine it and the mine companies must invest in good equipment and protective clothing for the workers. And pay for daycare and school for the children; child labor must be outlawed.

[@iron352]

The people of the congo need to just shut down don't do nothing let those who want it to do it themselves that will put a stop to it

[@My_Two_Cents]

Thank you kindly, friend. Have a wonderful life.

[@mrbensir]

​@@bindaredundat-uv6wzhow do you know the phone being used had cobalt in the battery? Mine doesn't. Mine has an LFP battery in it, so do millions of other phones. LFP batteries contain no cobalt. Lots of EVs are now being sold with cobalt free batteries, LFP batteries.

[@MrDuane1971]

Truly sad about the condition and treatment of these kids. Praying for all those affected by this!😢

[@toryjei9435]

Speechless. I feel disgusted with myself for living in this existence and feeling powerless to do anything about it. This is horrible! What can we do to alleviate this issue?

[@olliemck60]

Join groups that are pressuring politicians and corporations (like Apple) to enact human rights procedures in every aspect of human and environmental contact. One such group is the Fair Cobalt Alliance. I sent this video link to my chain of politicians from the city council all the way to Biden. In fact, that is how I found out about FCA.

[@raphaelprotti5536]

Stop buying teslas and iphones

[@olliemck60]

@@raphaelprotti5536 that would work, but highly unlikely.

[@sanp6092]

I ask the same question. Those children are powerless, how do we protect them form the likes of China.

[@sanp6092]

So I have just written a letter to no.10, hope they take it seriously, what comes next? As an individual I am not sure as this is new territory for me.

[@teddyraffudeen7056]

This man deserves a Nobel Prize for exposing the horrors of cobalt mining.

[@bindaredundat-uv6wz]

i have written a very powerful worded letter to those companies! things should change soon !!

[@olliemck60]

could not agree more, the Congo is ruined for generations. Cobalt is toxic. Children should be in school not in mines. The world could stop this in no time if greedy corporations required safe mining operations, and did not allow child or even artisanal-produced cobalt. Australia has cobalt mines, no way in hell they use children or unsafe practices. require and copy that.

[@belindaeckhardt8944]

he is not telling all the truth. he is a reporter. Scripts News has a much better docu. on this around the world.

[@belindaeckhardt8944]

@@olliemck60 have u seen the docm. by Scripts News that tells all the truth of this and how the Corp. have destroyed lifes.

[@olliemck60]

@@belindaeckhardt8944 I read the scripts article it says the same thing as this one.

[@paulaannstewartTHANKFUL2024]

Mr. Kara GOD BLESS YOU. Please watch your mental health. What you are exposing to the public is heart wrenching. Thank you for risking your life to get this story out!

[@gaylordkikati4787]

Thank you for covering this and showing the world what is happening in East congo. We have war for 2 decades since they discovered the cobalt and coltan. Almost 2millions people have been killed and misplaced. Just everytime we use a smartphone or electric car just remember that there is a blood in its.

[@kathleenshea-barber1722]

I never knew any of this. My heart is broken. My prayers are with these poor, suffering people.

[@olliemck60]

Prayers are good, and policies are even better. Let's vote for, pressure, and support policies and politicians who will end exploitation everywhere.

[@blackdiamond306]

Only way we can truly be sorry for what we are doing is stop being partakers of Cobalt. Us industry companies could have the humanitarian value not do business unless we have boots-on-the-ground to protect the children from this mirden age slavery.🧐❓

[@blackdiamond306]

@@Toneloke-3000 I assume that you are Caucasian blame is always deflected it's not for me to convince those who always taking advantage and know no other way.

[@olliemck60]

The USA spends 20 trillion dollars a year and has a net worth of 130 trillion dollars, that is a lot of beholden. China's largest trading partners include the EU and USA, which is a lot of beholden. One of China's main suppliers of raw materials is the USA, which is a lot of beholden. China has 1.3 billion people to feed and the USA is one of their largest suppliers of food. The bottom line is the fact that the Chinese economy does depend on the USA and the USA's allies. And in an all-out economic war - China loses big time, and its 1.3 billion people become a huge liability.

[@danmcqueen5295]

Ditto. So obviously we, as buyers of this technology, have become the perpetrators. Though unwittingly so until now. T'will be a heavy karmic price to pay indeed.

[@Marxist2]

Thank you Siddharth Kara for covering this horrific issue & for giving us this historical lesson.

[@begoode2385]

Thank him for what? He is promoting a book. He could care less about the Congo.

[@keenannorris3309]

@@begoode2385 Just stop.

[@manuabbey2749]

Why does your guest generalized a single country situation in DRC as an Africa situation? Use of correct language is imperative in responsible journalism.

[@amenhalleluyah1111]

Regardless of the fact that people don't like to take off their rose-colored glasses and call the situation when it is let's face it if people have to mind Cobalt in the United States or any other countries they would have the proper equipment, plant, warehouses, gloves, a liveable wage. Running plantations in africa for western countries is why China has a leg up when you do evil it comes back to you.

[@alfarouqmsn]

​@@manuabbey2749You watch atrocity and whine about grammar and journalistic choices? What kind of human are you?

[@ngalahansel6066]

I'm a Cameroonian student in Cape Town and until i moved out here 5 years ago, i had no idea there were these many people from the DRC in South Africa. I knew there was war in the DRC but never quite knew the depth of other related factors such as this cobalt and the fact that it's mined by children. I wonder why the world simply doesn't care but i also realize that we as Africans must be decisive in solving our problems and deciding the terms on which we will do business.

[@tiffanychappel6294]

It seems next to impossible to expect them to be able to make better deals, without wealthier people supporting their basic needs in the interim. Especially as they were displaced by these companies. Unfortunately, expecting any donations to their cause to actually make a difference is unlikely, as many outside groups will attempt to enrich themselves first. It is very hard to know who to trust.

[@wintersolsticegn8385]

Amazing journalism and Siddarth Kara is of an elite class of humanity, the true hero! ✊🏿❤🔥

[@KaikalaMoon]

Sickening to know the only thing changed in slavery are territories and populations. Thank you Mr. Kara for educating us on this despicable case of inhumanity. Excellent questions?

[@wattlebough]

Lithium Iron Phosphate/ LFP batteries that go in to >60% of all Tesla vehicles made contain zero cobalt. Tesla has also joined agreements on ethical sourcing of cobalt. It’s important to note that the second largest reserves of cobalt are found in Australia, which has some of the best mining practices in the world.

[@Irishtradchannel]

Africa has always been at the heart of slavery, most slaves in the world today are still in Africa. All the great kingdoms of West Africa were built on selling slaves to the middle East.

[@Muhdah1972]

​@@wattleboughElon Musk is not someone that I particularly think has a lot of integrity, but if this is true than at least he or someone at his company is doing something right.

[@Rasarel]

​@@Muhdah1972 Elon Musk grew up in apartheid south Africa. Do your research.

[@neovxr]

@@Rasarel What's the message here? as a kid he made some bitter experiences, and there were dangerous situations. He really seems to hate racism but experience made him cautious. France is failing because of cognitive dissonance. There are issues, and they have to be negotiated and dealt with ON the table, not under. Any ideology can only be toxic.

[@kathleenhack3897]

Thank you for bringing this horrific situation to light. What can we do about this injustice. Hold these companies accountable. Unbelievable this is happening in our time. Put an end to this now. Shameful!

[@MrManny075]

Start by destroying all your batteries and never use them again no demands no supply, just like the drugs

[@emmykalanga9746]

I was in Congo last month Katanga Lubumbashi everything mr kara is saying is true was there last month for drc mining week the plane was full of Chinese and white folks on our way to Lubumbashi Katanga as a Congolese bought up in London it’s truly sad. Hopefully our new president tshisekedi will try to sort out the situation .

[@robertafierro5592]

How can regular people like me, help? Should we be writing letters? How can we help? I think.this is heartbreaking.

[@kathleankeesler1639]

Thank you Siddharth for your courage, endurance, tenacity, conscience, integrity, compassion and determination. Modern Slavery + Sex Trafficking, two of your books I literally needed to read multiple times. Colbalt Red, meticulously researched; hope the millions in Silicon Valley California purchase a copy.

[@marilynstrong309]

I agree with what you said so eloquently. These poor children! There has to be a way to help. Raise awareness, I need to purchase the books.

[@helfiswelf]

Thank you Siddartha, we cannot let atrocities become normalized

[@sandraspidle5972]

It's so difficult to listen to this, and then to know they are paid so little after giving so much. The companies reaping the benefits could provide a decent way to live at the least. Greed is much more far reaching than we can begin to imagine, lack of respect for life is something else. So sad to think we enjoy products that contain cobalt that comes from these conditions. Thank you for opening our eyes and writing this book.

[@karentinsley8109]

Absolutely heartbreaking ! ,what a evil 😈 world we have to live in. It seems evil will never end .so hard for us that have good hearts to deal with 💔

[@jackinthegreen5178]

An amazing Man---doing what many of us ought to be doing---awakening the world (the 'civilized world') to the desperation, the tragedy and the UNNESSARY violence and misery of the corrupt corporations, through whom we experience a 'better life' on the backs and through the blood sacrifices of---children.

[@RJL612]

The Congolese government should be ashamed for not having child labor laws and protecting their children. Disgusting .

[@ReasonNotFightFlight]

What the point of knowing if the person viewing/reading can do nothing?

[@berniv7375]

@@ReasonNotFightFlight What do you mean do nothing? You can go on a demonstration. You can join an organisation that opposes this exploitation. You can write a letter. You can work in your own way or in a group to bring about change. ☮

[@kipincharge2833]

​@@berniv7375how about not having a zillion electric cars?????Maybe we should re-think how we do communities😄😆😅😀😃communities

[@erikanbessa362]

@@ReasonNotFightFlight Begin with FIXING gadgets ALREADY in existence instead of constantly "UPGRADING"- the capitalist ploy and further fueling the need for MORE cobalt and OTHER minerals as well. Use bicycles, walk, public transport, etc instead of "going green" ( a farce) by buyin e-cars... Some would think these modification in their own lives TOO complicated or EXTREME. But the opposite is TRUE, the EXTREME is the destruction, exploitation and illness that the current TECH SYSTEM is causing...

[@cheri238]

Another great independent journalist and writer, Mr. Siddharth Kara. His books explain the facts in worldwide truth. This corruption has on for years. Thank you , Amy and team Democracy Now.

[@tahneetran1471]

Thank you Mr. Siddharth Kara for covering the cobalt story of the “degradation of children” and as you said “injustice and needs to set right for the people of Congo “. I will borrow from Mr. Frederick Douglass's “The Country is rich but the people are poor “.

[@mwyatt7968]

Who will be charged for this level of exploitation?! Justice should be served and these people should be given different conditions and their health and care be taken into consideration and at the top of the supply chain!

[@juanalonso5963]

We as humans have failed! Its 2023 and shit like this still goes on.

[@robertmarley8852]

Really the old phuks who refuse to let go of power failed Future is looking bleak Hard to control a population with a bleak future

[@truthseeksme9994]

Understand how you feel... 😔

[@lala-KNITS]

And Apple just announced to be the first trillion dollar company

[@InfinityHS]

Right , they need to do something about this

[@darksu6947]

​@@InfinityHSWhat should "they" do exactly?

[@InfinityHS]

@@darksu6947 shit ….. , stop usin kids to mine they shit? Lmaooo

[@fidelistq]

Apple does not use cobalt

[@janesoole703]

My goodness, how glad I am that I stumbled upon this interview - purely by accident too - having left the laptop running while doing something else. Absolutely horrifying - thank you very much for this hugely important interview. I am bbsolutely horrified at the ruination of the Congo all those years ago and the murder by Western countries of their legitimate leader. No wonder some African countries turn to Russia for help and despise and mistrust the West. What an eye opener. Jane Soole, Dorset, England.

[@2009Obara]

Thanks for shinning a light on such essential journalism.

[@Marxist2]

This is beyond cruel & inhumane & we are all responsible for this.

[@DJK-cq2uy]

It's the capitalistic RepubliCON mentality....tRump Gates...etc

[@curtrice6060]

If we don’t blame the consumer. Then let’s blame mankind for not controlling greedy, unethical people 😈🤡👺😏😕😤😳.

[@swimmerwolf5]

No we aren't responsible. Saying that doesn't actually solve anything. To be responsible, we'd have to actually be doing the exploitation. We didn't agree to it, cause it nor are we committing it or making money from it. We ARE benefiting by the products that we all buy and use. But neither you nor I voted for this. No one is stopping you from giving up a smart phone, rechargeable batteries and an EV. And those are viable options, if you are willing to change your lifestyle (land-line, gas-powered car, etc.) If we have investments, we can make sure none are tied to cobalt mining. We can also petition our senators and representatives to take action about this on our behalf. And we can all, as much as we can, buy nothing from China, where millions of ethnic Muslim Uighurs are enslaved, tortured, organ-harvested. And they slave-mine lithium for Tesla.

[@RJL612]

The government of Congo is responsible for all of it. They create the laws. It's nobody else's fault.

[@Mephitinae]

@@Toneloke-3000 Speak for yourself buddy. I have always known that disposable tech is a scam. I'm still using my desktop PC built in a pro shop in 2016. No laptops for me. I have only bought 1 smartphone in my life, only because my previous employer demanded me to use their app.

[@mistyblue3238]

This is a Damn shame what corporations do to make a profit off of the backs of poor black people

[@dumashange7558]

The united slave states of america has enslaved Africans from it's inception until today. The united slave states of america is the most wicked nation ever to exist on earth.

[@Brianbeesandbikes]

Biggest crime ever on earth. Africa, birth of our species and where the greatest crimes have been committed.

[@Ianpact]

True and yet, it's not just black people. They do it to all people who don't have money and power. Hell, they are willing to poison and destroy the very planet they live on if it means they can make more money. If that's not a sign of an unhealthy mind, I don't what to tell you.

[@dannygreen7473]

And you think democratic socialism will do better... Think again.

[@pearls1626]

Not to mention children… working 18 hours.😢😢😢😢

[@kumbiraichipungu4723]

Thank you Siddharth Kara for exposing this dark side of wealthy corporations, so much hypocrisy, Africa is subjected to despicable abuse and it pains the heart to see how children have to endure such suffering just to feed the insatiable desire for super profits by the fat cats.

[@jnoble9032]

Thank you for truth telling to all of us who care about others 🍃

[@2stayfree11]

Horrific!!! This should be front page headlines! So tired of the greed of a few creating these devastating circumstances around the world. Unfortunately, demands of products by general population ( who have been programmed to believe they NEED these products) will not soon change . Thank you.

[@vincentharris7909]

“Programmed to think they NEED” 💯!

[@RJL612]

YEP THE CONGOLESE LETTING CHILDREN DO LABOR. WHAT KIND OF BACKWOODS, PODUNK SOCIETY DOESNT HAVE LABOR LAWS.

[@rebelforacause2589]

@@RJL612states in America are pulling back child labor laws. Pay attention bud

[@vernejacobs6019]

@@RJL612 You don't seem to understand how super rich companies and individuals are able to bribe and exploit poor governments and people. What kind of so-called, rich, civilized, advanced societies destroy the world and lives because of their unbridled greed and then get to be seen as heroes while you blame the victims? Siddhart explained how the whole thing happened. You should listen to it.

[@vernejacobs6019]

@@RJL612 And if you do a little research you'll find there are laws outlawing these practices already in the Congo.

[@timothypulliam2177]

Excellent guest. It's disgusting how we treat people in other countries

[@RJL612]

It's disgusting the government of Congo doesn't have child labor laws like the rest of the civilized world.

[@danmcqueen5295]

I would reserve "disgusting" for more trivial offenses. Perhaps heinous?

[@olliemck60]

We paid our coal miners better, but 20% of them are going to die, needlessly, from black lu

[@scj3188]

Black ppl *

[@cheri238]

​@@danmcqueen5295 Cruelty and barbaric

[@maggieedwards3951]

Mr Siddarth Kara thank you for your report.

[@paloma721558]

Thank you for this interview. Very sad and necessary news to understand. I felt it was missing our part in this terrible scenario as consumers

[@adriennefried5368]

Lord have mercy - worse then the mid century work houses for orphans...😢

[@hospicedragon96]

I was an orphan and I could tell you stories that would take your breath away and send anyone with empathy weeping at knowing how evil our country really is. I'm so lucky I eventually found a Faithful woman to marry and make a family or I'd be dying alone with a paupers funeral.

[@cheri238]

​@@hospicedragon96 Thank you for your story. There are many. I am happy you have a family that cares.

[@slappy8941]

Then and than are different words with different meanings, genius. 😂😂😂

[@Alexandra-ku6op]

@@hospicedragon96 I'm so very sorry because you were an orphan😭😭😭, what a nightmare something I can't even imagine. It makes me so happy you escaped that life. Blessings to you. You know after watching those scenes where they were abusing this poor child who obviously is weak and so young😭😭😭 omg please help us, I feel like I want to go to El Congo and get these poo abandoned children like the way you must have been once. My heart goes out to you. I'm seriously thinking how I can help because I don't have the means.

[@Alexandra-ku6op]

It just broke my heart because seeing the abuse of a child it was too much, believe me there are people that care but that have no idea what this cruel world is doing to innocent angels like yourself when you were a child. Really it was too much and I couldn't stop crying 😭😭😭😭😭😭. I'm a content creator and that's the 1st thing I'm gonna do create awareness.

[@8877dksljfa]

I deeply appreciate everything you do in bringing this to light

[@karenhunter864]

Horrific! Thank you for continuing to go to work every day Amy. ❤️

[@geeta8889]

Amy is classy, intelligent and gives true information to the viewers. Thanks 🙏🙏🙏

[@zedwolf1589]

Just being able to get into The Kongo is extremely hard, these corporations have been causing horrible wars in this country for a long time. The companies have been exploiting these poor people all over the world and the one constant about these capatilist corporations is they only care about profit and not the people they oppress and kill.

[@humanbeing3337]

greed is gross

[@Ianpact]

Thank you, Siddharth and DN.

[@Xavier-uknonada]

Having those people mine this by hand without personal protective equipment is a form of genocide.

[@michelcalombo5598]

i am from drc congo i would like to thank you for exposing who are responsible For our misery. God will never leave all those criminal's politicians for the white throne judgements. Be blessed in jesus christ name

[@silviopina_111]

What can we do? We are all sad, but how can we help? I don't think the answer is to go back to fossil fuels, but if buying an electric car is involved in this, I feel absolutely paralyzed 😭😭😭

[@LinearConvolution]

@@silviopina_111 electric cars take a lot of mileage to offset the initial carbon cost of building them. An alternative, if feasible, is to use public transport, walking/biking, and ride shares instead of buying a whole new car.

[@mugolff]

​@@LinearConvolution❤

[@SheWhoIsWise]

😢 Why do we continue to repeat the worse parts of history? What can WE do to dismantle the atrocities going on in this world? All governments and corporations participating in the demise of poor & desperate people should be ashamed. We, The People, must demand change for the betterment of ALL humanity.

[@bindaredundat-uv6wz]

i have written a very powerful worded letter to those companies! things should change soon !!

[@thomasramirez1732]

We the people put them in power they all look out for themselves the political system is corrupt

[@emjaydark2811]

‘We’ can change our personal culture, get off the phone, read books, etc. practice individual daily life, unconnected with the so called global village, learn to be comfortable with ourselves alone, and moderate our interactions with others.

[@bindaredundat-uv6wz]

@@emjaydark2811 but we dont !! we can also say dont have sex before marriage. stay in school. be good to others etc !! but we dont ..

[@slivkask8329]

CEO of every tech company should send their kids or grandkids to Congo to help mining cobalt under those horrible conditions. I am pretty sure that this will change things quite quickly!

[@alizsavay]

Thank you so much Siddharth for sharing this and what has happened in history and the modern day and the patterns that have led to this. It is so important for us all to know and what can we do about it?

[@-www.chapters.video-]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="0">00:00</a> Introduction to the impact of Cobalt mining in the Congo <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="63">01:03</a> Siddharth Kara's research on Cobalt mining and its connection to modern slavery <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="120">02:00</a> Siddharth Kara's journey to the Congo and the extreme conditions he witnessed <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="212">03:32</a> Distinction between industrial mining and artisanal mining in the Congo <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="251">04:11</a> The scale of industrial mining operations and the displacement of local populations <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="408">06:48</a> Exploitation of child miners and the responsibility of tech and EV companies <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="518">08:38</a> The reality of Cobalt mining and the public health and environmental consequences <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="674">11:14</a> Comparison of earnings between miners and CEOs, highlighting the inequality <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="745">12:25</a> Exploitation and dangers of tunnel digging and pit digging <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="837">13:57</a> Responsibility of Congolese government, China, and the United States <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="956">15:56</a> China's dominant role in the Cobalt mining industry <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1276">21:16</a> The assassination of Patrice Lumumba and the neocolonial influence of the West <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1462">24:22</a> The complete degradation of Congolese children by the global economy <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1500">25:00</a> The need to address the injustice and suffering inflicted on the poorest children

[@belladonnatook8851]

Thank you for this!

[@kathleankeesler1639]

Thank you.

[@mbest.12]

Thank you so much

[@oneoflokis]

Thanks. But you know what?? 1) If this crappy country's no doubt corrupt government (or some international investment) provided more of the people in this country with better jobs, real jobs, to go to, then they wouldn't be doing this. 😏 2) If the DRC had universal education until age 18, and social security for all the poor, then that would stop child labour.

[@mar25947]

Thank you!

[@virginiajune4812]

I would like to follow this man's work for sure, and pray for him

[@hotelcalifornia715]

@AmyGoodman this is a great interview and an authentic coverage with the author on Congos humanitarian crisis. Keep up the great work in bringing to light all such dark facts which otherwise will remain hidden from our collective consciousness

[@mundrakeshav22]

I am reading his book and every page keeps me disturbed by how bad the situation actually is.

[@niagenerational5249]

This had me crying. I mean knew about this. But Siddharth vividly took us there in detail and gave us a window into this hell for the people of the DRC. He has perfectly etched this into our conscious, as needs to be because every day people are oblivious. Excellent investigation, journalism and compassion on his part in exposing this crime and industrial genocide of the Congolese people.

[@david5544g]

Then stop using your cell phone? If you really care?

[@niagenerational5249]

@@david5544g If that would resolve this issue. The issue is more complex and deeper than that. But if snarky comments make you feel better then kudos to you.

[@david5544g]

It was a simple ... Instead of addressing my simple statement you're condescending and name calling...Typical fool... Saying "if that would resolve this issue" means you pretend to care but don't want to change your behavior, just everyone else's because you want to seem concerned but are not willing to back it up? I may be snarky? But you're a hypocrite.

[@obsoleteelite8258]

@@david5544gtwat you just did right there is a typical fallacy of Conservatives and Colonials. That’s a complete COPOUT!!! I award you no points and god have mercy on your soul.

[@david5544g]

@@obsoleteelite8258 Typical liberal? scold everyone while not addressing the issues at all because you can't win?.. Bravo!... PS we were a colony relatively recently.

[@humanbeing3337]

2nd that ! We ALL have a responsibility to consume with our eyes open. Consumer money is the ONLY power we have. Use it wisely. Hold the tech companies accountable for the *entire* supply chain.

[@Monkismo]

People would rather see other people suffer so they can buy a new iPhone or Air Jordans a litle bit cheaper. Even the poor in America don't care about this. It's not just about big tech or "the elites" anymore.

[@steventatlock5443]

"Choosing where to spend their fiat money that I trade my life for is the only power we have!" There's a reason governments have a monopoly on violence- it's effectiveness.

[@silviopina_111]

Yes, but how? Can anyone post some actual actionable resources?

[@wattlebough]

Lithium Iron Phosphate/ LFP batteries that go in to >60% of all Tesla vehicles made contain zero cobalt. Tesla has also joined agreements on ethical sourcing of cobalt. It’s important to note that the second largest reserves of cobalt are found in Australia, which has some of the best mining practices in the world.

[@justjc51]

The good news is that EV manufacturers are aware of the problem, and most are solving it by removing cobalt from their batteries. Some already have cobalt free battery options and most other manufacturers will most likely have made the switch within two years. The problem is that the switch will only lower the value of cobalt and unless the people of the area find a new way to make money this will only make them poorer. I suspect that cobalt in five years will go back to the previous use, as a catalyst for removing sulphur from fuel and use in the cheapest of lithium batteries.

[@Chanelnumber7394]

Wow this author is simply amazing for really going deeper into this such great work done by him truly a wonderful man

[@izzzzzz6]

"Cobalt (Co) is a metal used in numerous diverse commercial, industrial, and military applications, many of which are strategic and critical. On a global basis, the leading use of cobalt is in rechargeable battery electrodes. Superalloys, which are used to make parts for gas turbine engines, are another major use for cobalt. Cobalt is also used to make airbags in automobiles; catalysts for the petroleum and chemical industries; cemented carbides (also called hardmetals) and diamond tools; corrosion- and wear-resistant alloys; drying agents for paints, varnishes, and inks; dyes and pigments; ground coats for porcelain enamels; high-speed steels; magnetic recording media; magnets; and steel-belted radial tires." This is still a local problem albeit potentially to do with local corruption. They have the mines with adults and machines, the government there needs to stop the small mines selling their product to the big mines unless they can prove they have a fair workforce. It's not the end users responsibility even if i agree we should all slow down and consume less.

[@fdavis1555]

I can't think of an ill in this world that would not be addressed by people being more empathetic.

[@Joy31608]

Getting rid of the brutal, wasteful capitalistic system and replacing it with a system of Justice for ALL!

[@3dagedesign]

Religious organisations which are abusing children in their care. empathy ?

[@belladonnatook8851]

And less capitalistic.

[@xelefonte]

This was such an insightful powerful video. Learned so much about Congo’s history and Belgium and the CIA’s evil corruption in their torture and killing of a national hero , Patrice Lumumba. Imagine if some African nation tortured and killed George Washington. They ripped his body into many pieces and then burned him leaving a tooth as a souvenir. America would be hating that African nation and seeking revenge. They would be absolutely disgusted and horrified. Surprisingly, Congo doesn’t hold such contempt for Belgium and America the way they probably should. Instead, they just want a fair economic opportunity from all the cobalt profits. This is such a poignant story about evil, corruption, environmental racism and greed.

[@fractalign]

It’s easy to overlook the massive overpopulation that fuels the poverty the people endure. With three quarters of the population living in severe poverty, there is no way the Congolese government or the CCP want to address it.

[@artimidz3451]

​@@fractalignI wonder how easy it is to find a Planned Parenthood in the DRC? Do they have a public education system? Do they have a public health care system?

[@kaypee4704]

​@@artimidz3451...those things exist only in the USA..not all countries around the world has the privilege of education and health care..... America is the biggest culprits...for the use of the minerals for the technology.... and green issues.....

[@lemonline3719]

​@@artimidz3451 Planned Parenthood is American/North American, but there is absolutely public health care and public education. Issue is the best education and healthcare is provided to those willing to spend more $$$ on private, just like in America and most countries. (Source: child of Congolese immigrants living in Canada)

[@artimidz3451]

@@lemonline3719 stop pretending that those things are enjoyed by all. Perhaps in Some parts of country like the one your father came from and at that time. Please borrow from our fabulous public library system the new nonfiction book documenting the state of Congolese people today, written by a journalist who traveled there and conducted in person on the ground interviews with Congolese people living there today: Cobalt Red: How the blood of the Congo powers our lives, by Siddharth Kara, St Martin's Press, 2023.

[@c.l.2635]

excellent was Siddhardh Kara pulled out so that everyone can follow what is really going on and how complex the devastating parallel world of exploitation of the worst is. This must have an end very soon. Thank you for your so important work.

[@zhouyi1933]

I gave Siddharth's wikipedia a read and he's a very impressive individual. Bestselling author, Pulitzer prize nominee, Professor. Very inspiring.

[@margotbw4660]

This is such an important issue, thanks to DN for bringing it to us!

[@raygreen5926]

We are all watching this on our cellphones

[@nilslarson7532]

Thanks for your reporting, it is highly appreciated.

[@ArghMatey]

WOW I'm speechless. Thank you for opening our eyes ... I know there's great risk exposing this stuff

[@josegegas]

Many call this "industrial colonialism" or "industrial slavery". It is one of the many terrible environmental and social consequenses of the massive economic inequality we face. Some people making huge money based on the suffering of many poor, and on the destruction of the environment.

[@HoneyDubey23]

Thank you for doing this research and bringing the truth to light!

[@lisescheiman5092]

Thanks for your terrific coverage!

[@MrDXRamirez]

The cobalt consumer in the end is the American and European consumer completely or partially ignorant of the exploitation of human beings by the production process of cobalt.

[@monkeyking-self-proclaimed7050]

No, the only one to blame is the DRC for allowing this to happen to their people.

[@MrDXRamirez]

@@monkeyking-self-proclaimed7050 the fault is your’s.

[@pearls1626]

If the DRC government revolt they will overthrow it and bring another puppet gov.

[@edwardb7811]

"The horror! The horror!: These were Kurz's last words in Conrad's Heart of Darkness. They are still true, today.

[@Sarah-mh6vx]

Thank you for this to awareness . I hope changes that make things better for the Country and it’s people, start immediately! There is no reason why this should be happening.. we need to start paying attention and being mindful of what we are using and consuming! We can work together as globe and do what’s right!!

[@jamesreagan9063]

Amy, You are a bright light in a World growing darker by the day!

[@solomonl2009]

The leaders to this nation should be locked up for life.

[@debbiedean3165]

Thank you Siddharth Kara for investigating this horrific, evil abuse of these innocent people by governments and corporations. It’s indescribably inhumane. I feel sick. God please bring justice 🙏✝️

[@paulgram3967]

THIS goes beyond Outrageous,,, Shocked,,does not even begin to express my feelings,,, These companies are EVIL and must be defeated and STOPPED.

[@williebeamish5879]

And they do not care. All about $$$$

[@Mixamaka]

It is hard to watch and listen to, but at the same time it's necessary to listen to that important reporting. For some reasons most of the media(not just in America) ignores it...

[@malindadavis8577]

Lantern flies china

[@Freebird-1122]

Most of the media is controlled by a handful of conglomerates who are just as capitalistic as the tech titans. They’re all in bed together. Sadly, we’re only gonna see/hear stories like this from independent press and public radio.

[@alin81-82]

We may need these minerals, but there's gotta be a better way. These people & the environment shouldn't be exploited like this. More of us need to consider using public transportation more often.

[@lemonline3719]

Public transit, refurbished phones, recycling, right to repair laws

[@John_jojo_kay]

World should be know how my brothers and sisters suffering in DR Congo. We have a lot natural resources under ground but we live in suffering

[@rosemaryortega9879]

Incredible truth, and reality that many people do not want to hear.

[@roballen3281]

It is so sadly horrific that for 40 years the petrochemical corporations have profited from every aspect of fossil fuels and minerals and the suffering of these people. More exposure to Corporate and Government Greed, now What is Change, will the Powers to be, hold the corporations and governments accountable or is this just another chapter of what human civilization can do to themselves and the to the earth? Human beings don't have human rights.

[@gabrielmaroto18]

How many phones does Apple release a year?

[@Here1965]

I would like to know what health hazards these people contract from doing this

[@judithmokhiber3882]

Thank you for this report.

[@ngandosambalundula8183]

Grand merci, Amy, pour avoir dénigré l'inhumanité du système capitaliste dans mon pays ! Voilà pourquoi bien de congolais aspirent à n'importe quel autre système économique plutôt que le capitalisme sauvage et sans coeur. Vous souhaite bonne continuation, Chère Amy et à tous vos invités de marque !

[@mariam.3612]

Thank you to let public know about book like the his one. I have bought this book just seconds after this video started. Thank you for your work!!!!! 💪👍👏🙏🏻

[@dullsearake]

Thank you for covering this important issue Siddharth. You are a very good speaker as well, hats off.

[@jamesrussell6638]

Excellent coverage

[@bobbylee_]

Can you imagine this nations children and people being exploited to this degree for a resource that makes corporations and other nations rich?

[@tarobinson7411]

Thank you again for another eye-opening report on a subject too long ignored. Thank you for introducing Mr. Kara. I am ordering the book today. I want to introduce somehow, to children and young people to the atrocities the Congolese people endure for the objects they love. Thank you DEMOCRACY NOW....

[@TragoudistrosMPH]

Infuriating that the most profitable resource causes poverty instead of wealth.

[@olliemck60]

Awful, slavery continues!

[@olliemck60]

@@user-by1cg2sk5q Science is not the issue, human greed is, and science even tells us that.

[@jessiemccullough1]

Great reporting Amy as always I pray for the people of the Congo. This is so sad. We’re so comfortable here in the US at the expense of some of these people how wicked this place is unbelievable what a country nothing but greed, no love nothing only God can change these things. Humanity is too far gone, it’s on the path of destruction and the only way out is the most high God but people don’t even believe that he exist especially the ones that are running things but they will have to pay one day for all of this and it’s not going to be good🙏🏿

[@belladonnatook8851]

So I guess this absolves you from having to do anything to help?

[@danny.pitman183]

Thank you for educating us on this horrific mining practice. Shame on the these tech companies for worrying about there bottom lines.

[@blackthornsloe8049]

This is heartbreaking .

[@down-to-earth-mystery-school]

This is horrific! We need to be trying to make synthetic cobalt, and use those profits to restore the environment and economic system of the Congo

[@jeffspooner1246]

Most EV companies have been shifting to Cobalt free Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries , but I don't know about the cell smart phone makers companies.

[@quietatse]

Before we get to creating synthetic cobalt, we need to think addressing the problems the west has created and continues to do across the planet.

[@bingosunnoon9341]

@@jeffspooner1246 The LiFePO4 batteries you mention are available and have been for twenty years. There are reason they aren't used in cell phones, chiefly performance.

[@yaadtingz1087]

Yow, i wish if we could go down there now and just change the situation. thank you Mr Kara for letting us know about this horrible act by these horrible people Please keep up the good work.

[@berlyemagee962]

This story of this little 16 year old girl needs to be heard by children her age. Your book needs to be in the public schools.😮

[@emjaydark2811]

Kids can’t read. They only learn about sex.