Introduction
Environmental and indigenous rights defenders continue to be among the most targeted in the world, despite landmark rulings by international courts affirming governments' obligations to protect both the environment and those who defend it.
The Current Situation
According to a recent report by Front Line Defenders, at least 358 human rights defenders were killed last year. Of these, 84 were targeted due to their environmental protection work, in countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, France, Honduras, Guatemala, Mexico, India, Indonesia, Peru, Philippines, Turkey, Somalia, and Palestine.
In addition, 17% of the documented killings were of indigenous rights defenders, who often work on environmental issues.
Conflicts and Threats
Environmental defenders are often on the front lines of conflicts over mining, oil and gas development, logging, and agribusiness, making them especially vulnerable to retaliation from governments, businesses, and other legal and illegal actors.
An example is the case of Efraín Fueres, an Ecuadorian environmental defender who was killed last year. Fueres had participated in nationwide protests against the wave of pro-extractive-industry and authoritarian moves by the government.
International Recognition
International courts have recognized the legitimacy and importance of environmental defenders' work, affirming that a healthy environment is a precondition for all other human rights, and that governments have legal obligations to address climate change and protect environmental defenders.
Furthermore, over 165 countries have now recognized the human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, providing a stronger legal basis for communities to challenge environmental harm and the systems that facilitate it.
Conclusion
Environmental defenders continue to face significant challenges in their struggle to protect the environment and human rights. However, with growing international recognition of the importance of their work, there is hope for a more sustainable and just future.
Source / Reference
This story was originally published by Grist with the title Environmental defenders remain among world’s most targeted activists on June 27, 2026.