Diamonds Without Blood: A Look at Namibia

There has been considerable attention to the influence of diamond wealth on conflict. By examining the role of diamonds in Namibia, this research shows that under some conditions diamond wealth can make conflict less probable. It examines possible conditions that may have made Namibia the exception to the rule by exploring five factors: the neighborhood effect, political dynamics, economic institutions, grievances, and political geography. Given these conditions diamonds have contributed to the absence of conflict in Namibia for two reasons: diamonds have historically been mined in the desert area that makes smuggling difficult and the joint agreement between the government and De Beers has led to a taxable base, strengthening state institutions.