Colombia and Brazil deadliest countries for environmental activists, report says

Land defenders and the communities that depend on their work are the primary victims of a rising wave of lethal violence. The first report, published by Common Dreams, recorded 124 land defenders killed in 2025 and tied the spike to lawlessness and cuts to aid programs. The loss undermines land rights and biodiversity conservation efforts. Subsequent coverage broadened the picture.

AP News noted that Latin America accounted for 85% of all environmental defender killings in 2025, while the BBC identified Colombia and Brazil as the deadliest nations for activists. The Guardian reported that people protecting nature are forming self‑defence units in response to murder threats, and globalwitness.org highlighted a collective push for stronger protection of land and environmental defenders. These units represent a new tactical response to intimidation. The emphasis on U.S. policy in the Common Dreams piece contrasts with the regional focus of AP and BBC, creating a divergent narrative about the drivers of violence.

Defenders continue to organize self‑defence groups while advocates call for international attention, leaving the situation unresolved. International NGOs are urging governments to strengthen legal safeguards.