What Are the Prospects for a Global Treaty on Critical Raw Materials?

Global demand for critical raw materials (CRMs) such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements is increasing due to clean energy transitions and advanced technologies. This has intensified strategic competition, with major powers framing CRMs as national security assets and adopting unilateral measures like export controls and bloc-based alliances. These dynamics risk sidelining environmental and human rights concerns, despite severe social and ecological impacts linked to mining. Colombia has proposed initiating negotiations for a global treaty on mineral traceability and accountability, scheduled for discussion at the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) in December 2025. The draft resolution calls for establishing an expert group to explore options for a legally binding agreement modelled on the plastic treaty process. Its aim is to address environmental degradation, human rights violations, and governance gaps in CRM supply chains before demand pressures escalate further. While prospects for Colombia’s proposal are uncertain, UNEA-7 discussions could mark a critical milestone for advancing sustainable CRM governance.