Botswana diamond workers allege exploitation
The Botswana Diamond Workers Union claims some firms pay meagre wages and force punishing hours on staff.
The Botswana Diamond Workers Union (BDWU) has accused some diamond cutting and polishing factories of exploiting workers, particularly Indian migrants. Allegations include meagre wages, precarious contracts, punishing hours, and intimidation against union organizing.
These claims emerge as Botswana's diamond trade faces soft global demand, sliding prices, and competition from lab-grown stones. The BDWU's accusations strike at the country's reputation for producing ethical diamonds, a brand built over nearly six decades.
Botswana sought to keep more value from its diamonds by developing local cutting and polishing, aiming to create jobs and transfer skills. However, operating costs in Botswana are higher than in established hubs like Surat, India, potentially leading some firms to cut labour costs.
Why it mattersWorkers in Botswana's diamond polishing factories face allegations of exploitation including low pay and long hours.