Cobalt mining has been linked to a number of human rights abuses, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which produces more than half of the world's cobalt. The mining of cobalt in the DRC is often carried out under dangerous and exploitative conditions, with workers subjected to long hours, low pay, and hazardous working conditions. Many of these workers are children, who are forced to work in the mines to support their families. The human rights abuses associated with cobalt mining have been well-documented by human rights organizations and the media. Workers are often forced to work in mines that are unstable and unsafe, with inadequate safety equipment and training. In some cases, workers have been killed or injured in mine collapses or other accidents. Child labor is also a major problem in the cobalt mining industry, with children as young as six years old working in the mines.

Addressing the human rights crisis associated with cobalt mining will require a multi-faceted approach that involves a range of stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, and industry leaders. One key solution is to promote greater transparency and accountability in the cobalt supply chain, including better tracking of the origin of cobalt and greater scrutiny of mining practices. This can be achieved through the development of certification schemes and traceability systems that enable companies and consumers to ensure that their products are not linked to human rights abuses.

Another important solution is to support the development of more sustainable and ethical practices for the mining and processing of cobalt. This includes promoting the use of safer and more environmentally-friendly methods of extraction, as well as ensuring that workers are paid fair wages and have safe working conditions. It also involves addressing the root causes of child labor, such as poverty and lack of access to education, and working with local communities to provide alternative livelihoods.

The demand for cobalt has been increasing rapidly in recent years, primarily due to the growth of the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Cobalt is a key component in the batteries that power these vehicles, and as the demand for EVs continues to rise, so too does the demand for cobalt. In addition, cobalt is used in a wide range of other products, including smartphones, laptops, and other electronic devices, which also contribute to the increasing demand for this mineral. However, the current methods of cobalt extraction and production are not sustainable or ethical, and are often linked to human rights abuses and environmental damage. As such, there is an urgent need to develop more responsible and sustainable practices for the mining and processing of cobalt, in order to meet the growing demand for this mineral while also protecting human rights and the environment.