Environmental Activists Under Threat: A Global Crisis

According to watchdog Global Witness, nearly 200 environmental activists and land defenders lost their lives in 2023, with Colombia being the most dangerous place for them.

Latin America remained a perilous region, accounting for 85% of the 196 killings. Colombia reported 79 murders, the highest for a single country. Brazil, Honduras, and Mexico followed suit.

The report highlighted a concerning trend of crackdowns on environmentalists in the UK, Europe, and the US, as laws are increasingly being used against defenders.

Colombia’s Stance on Murders

Despite Colombia having the highest number of killings for the second consecutive year, it is set to host the COP16 meeting to discuss the Convention on Biological Diversity.

The majority of the activist murders in Colombia occurred in the southwest regions, prompting embarrassment for the government.

Global Witness emphasized the need for urgent action by governments to protect defenders and address the root causes of violence against them.

No Place for Environmentalists

The report revealed Central America’s dangers, with Honduras having the highest killings per capita. Laura Furones, a lead author, urged against further loss of lives.

In Africa, four deaths were recorded; however, the actual number is likely higher. The criminalization of activists and surveillance are common tactics used globally to silence defenders.