Environmental defenders targeted globally: 358 killed in 2025, report reveals

Environmental defenders and Indigenous rights advocates were among the most targeted human rights activists in 2025, as highlighted in a report released on June 27, 2026, by Front Line Defenders, a Dublin-based organization. The report documented at least 358 human rights defenders killed last year, with 84 of those fatalities linked directly to their environmental protection efforts.

Global Impact on Human Rights Defenders

The report indicated that the killings occurred in countries including Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, and India. Indigenous rights defenders, while tracked separately, accounted for 17 percent of the documented fatalities. Beyond these deaths, nearly 4,000 nonlethal attacks on human rights defenders were reported across 119 countries, underscoring a broader trend of violence and intimidation.

Many attacks remain unreported, as the authors noted that political restrictions and media suppression in countries like China, Iran, and the Democratic Republic of Congo hinder documentation efforts. The report emphasizes the challenges faced by defenders who promote rights enshrined in the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Legal Recognition and Challenges

Courts worldwide have increasingly recognized the importance of environmental defenders. A landmark advisory opinion from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights affirmed that a healthy environment is essential for all human rights. Despite this progress, defenders continue to face threats from powerful networks, including governments and corporations involved in extractive industries.

In Ecuador, for instance, environmental defenders like Efraín Fueres have faced violent reprisals. Fueres, a community leader, was killed during protests against pro-extractive policies. Videos of the incident show him shot while marching, highlighting the dangers faced by activists in their pursuit of environmental justice.

Challenges in Reporting and Accountability

The Front Line Defenders report indicates that many attacks on human rights defenders go unaccounted for, with perpetrators rarely held accountable. The authors noted a trend of governments and corporations leveraging legal systems to intimidate activists, with criminal charges and lawsuits used to stifle opposition.

• 358 human rights defenders killed in 2025
• 84 targeted for environmental advocacy
• Nearly 4,000 nonlethal attacks reported
• Countries with significant incidents: Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador
• 17% of killings involved Indigenous rights defenders

As the world grapples with the ongoing climate crisis, the role of environmental defenders becomes increasingly vital. Their work not only addresses immediate environmental concerns but also contributes to broader democratic principles and the rule of law.