Cobalt's Dark Side: Child Labor Fuels Europe's Green and Military Machines

Cobalt's Dark Side: Child Labor Fuels Europe's Green Transition and Military Buildup The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is the world's leading producer of cobalt, a key component in electric car batteries and military technology. However, the industry is plagued by unethical labor practices, including the widespread use of child labor in dangerous and unregulated mines. This report investigates the human cost of our technological advancements and the environmental implications of increased military spending. "Our children are dying like dogs," cries Bissette, a mother whose son was killed in a mine collapse in 2019. The collapse killed 63 people, but only four bodies were recovered. Such accidents are common, with miners often working in appalling conditions for less than two dollars a day, lacking basic necessities such as medical care and electricity. The EU's recent decision to increase military spending by 800 billion euros further complicates the issue. This massive investment will drive even greater demand for cobalt, potentially exacerbating the already dire situation in the DRC. The video raises serious questions about the ethical sourcing of materials for green technologies and the environmental impact of military expansion. The situation in the DRC's cobalt mines serves as a stark reminder of the complex ethical challenges inherent in global supply chains. Moving forward, greater transparency and accountability are needed to ensure that our pursuit of technological progress doesn't come at the expense of human lives and environmental sustainability.