Conflict Minerals Sourcing in the Congo and Directive (EU) 2024/1760: the Final Countdown for Companies or for Miners?

Abstract The introduction of renewable energies to eliminate gas in the perspective of energy transition no longer focused on fossil fuels has increased the demand for the lithium batteries necessary for electronic devices. Minerals such as cobalt and coltan are essential component for such technologies and for Multinational companies (MNCs). In the Democratic Republic of the Congo thousands of miners are forced to work in artisanal mines in completely unsafe manners. MNCs, together with the mineral supply chain, are failing to conduct adequate human rights due diligence. Several international and regional regulations establish precise parameters in order to prevent human rights violations for MNCs in general and, in particular, in the mineral sourcing and trade. Until 2024, EU regulation was voluntary, but now, after the approval of the Directive (EU) 2024/1760 on corporate sustainability due diligence, it seems that a countdown has started for MNCs. The article maintains that this Directive may produce a double-sided effect, because it can be detrimental for local communities whose economy could be affected by a more stringent regulation.