Critical minerals stockpiling raises human rights concerns

The United States and the European Union are accelerating efforts to stockpile critical minerals such as cobalt, lithium, and rare earth elements to strengthen national security and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. However, this growing demand raises significant human rights concerns, as many of these minerals are mined in regions where forced labor and child labor are widespread, particularly in artisanal mining sectors. The mixing of minerals from regulated and unregulated sources during processing makes it difficult for companies to ensure their supply chains are free from labor abuses. To prevent stockpiling efforts from worsening these issues, governments must strictly enforce labor regulations and work with industry and local communities to formalize mining practices and improve working conditions.

Source: adapted from NYU | STERN Center for Business and Human Rights, March 2026.