Synthetic Diamonds and the Kimberly Process: Fighting the last war
For well over a decade, a unique, but flawed global governance initiative, the Kimberley Process, has sought to assure customers that the high prices that they pay for diamonds – stones sold as symbols of love – are not associated with war and bloodshed. But more recently, the increasing production of synthetic diamonds in response to demand in emerging countries is threatening the stability of the entire diamond market.
The future of the platinum industry and its implications for South Africa
At this week’s Mining Lekgotla (13-14 August 2014), the future of the currently suppressed platinum industry is likely to be a key agenda item. Whether fuel cell technology takes off is a critical determinant of what this future might look like.
Women grossly under-represented in international politics
Women are still severely underrepresented in governments globally. A 2013 World Economic Forum report covering 115 countries notes that women have closed over 90% of the gender gap in education and in health but only 15% when it comes to political empowerment at the highest levels of government.
Africa Must Also Lobby US Congress on Trade Law
This week African leaders have descended on Washington, DC for the first ever US-Africa Leaders Summit.
Three Scenarios for the Future of AGOA
On September 30, 2015, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) will expire. The act provides duty free access to the US, and if it lapses could threaten 62,395 jobs in South Africa alone.
Can the US and the Africa work together on a sustainable energy future?
Among the key themes of the US-Africa Business Forum, organised as an important core event during the upcoming US-Africa Leaders’ Summit in Washington, energy is recognised as a priority issue for Africa and the growing US partnership with African states.
Navigating the US Congressional Process of Reauthorising AGOA
The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which provides eligible African countries with duty-free access to the US market, is scheduled to expire on 30 September 2015.
The US-Africa Summit: An opportunity to deepen democratic governance
The upcoming US-Africa summit on 5-6 August 2014, the first of its kind, includes the promotion of democracy on its agenda. This dimension sets itself apart from the plethora of other high level summits involving the engagement of emerging powers with Africa.
The African Growth and Opportunity Act At a Glance
In the lead up to the US-Africa Leaders’ Summit, taking place from 4 to 6 August, all eyes are on the future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). South Africa currently qualifies trade preferences under the Act, along with 38 other African states. But just what is the Act, why is it important, and what is the current state of trade between the US and Africa?
US-Africa Leaders Summit: Changes now and to come
Now that the sixth BRICS Summit and the FIFA World Cup are over, the focus moves from Brazil and the emerging powers to the United States of America.