Colombia witnesses an unprecedented surge in the murder of environmental activists.
In 2023, roughly 196 environmental activists lost their lives globally, as per a report by the NGO Global Witness. Latin America emerged as the most perilous region for individuals advocating for environmental preservation and land rights. The region accounted for an astounding 85% of all such cases last year, with a majority of incidents taking place in just four nations: Colombia, Brazil, Honduras, and Mexico.
Colombia reported the highest number of environmental activist murders ever, with 79 documented cases. Brazil saw 25 individuals losing their lives due to their activism. The tiny nation of Honduras had the highest per capita murder rate among environmental activists, which tragically even included a father and his 15-year-old son.
The Philippines continued to be the most hazardous country for environmental activists in Asia, resulting in 17 fatalities last year. There was also an upsurge in activist abductions in the region. In Africa, Global Witness confirmed four murders of environmental activists, though the actual numbers are likely to be higher due to limited access to information.
Criticism of Strict Surveillance and Penalties in the West
Global Witness voiced its concern over the rising trend of intense surveillance and punitive measures against environmental and climate protests in the EU, UK, and US. Activists based in the European Union are subjected to "draconian levels of surveillance," while penalties for protest activities have been amplified in the UK and US.
Global Witness implored governments across the globe to take "resolute action" to safeguard environmental activists, who serve a vital role in promoting the common good. The report's author, Laura Furones, emphasized that such fatalities can neither be tolerated nor afforded.
South America's unfortunate lead in environmental activist deaths continues, with over 80% of global cases occurring in the region in 2023. Brazil and Colombia, specifically, have seen significant loss of life among activists advocating for environmental preservation.
