Milestone in the fight against blood diamonds

The war crimes tribunal for Sierra Leone is a major first step in eliminating the trade in so-called blood diamonds, writes the left-liberal daily Der Standard: "The case [of former Liberian President Charles] Taylor shows how difficult it is to prove political responsibility for war crimes. This was already clear in the case of the late defendant [former president of Serbia] Slobodan Milošević. Only now are we beginning to formulate international laws that would so efficiently ensure that the crimes of individuals are brought to justice that they will reduce the impunity that sows such despair and brutality, particularly in Africa. The trial of Taylor remains a milestone, because it shows that not even a former president can escape prosecution. The tribunal - eight of the 13 accused have been convicted - now has also prompted the diamond-producing countries and diamond dealers to try to stop the trade in 'blood diamonds'. [Model Naomi] Campbell's appearance in court has at least demonstrated that diamonds are not always 'a girl's best friend'."

» full article (external link, German)
More from the press review on the subject » International Relations, » Africa, » Global
All available articles from » Adelheid Wölfl

» To the complete press review of Friday, August 6, 2010