Over the next three posts I will be reflecting from my journals on my trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo, where I had been invited by Peace Direct to explore a grass roots idea of using small-scale gold mining as a means of building a peace and reconciliation process. A bold plan in the

With the value of precious metals near all-time highs, hard rock mining will continue to threaten sensitive environmental areas. We cannot expect much help from Congress. Senator Majority Leader Harry Reid is strongly supported by the mining lobby, and so long as he is in power, the 1872 mining act will remain the law of

To all supporters and jewellers linked to FJA. Below is an unedited note from Niels Madsen, one of the founders of the 16 August Union, highlighting the terrible plight of the local arctic people who are faced with a worsening situation in regards to mineral policy. As you will see the threat of new laws