Colombia and Brazil deadliest countries for environmental activists, report says
The two countries accounted for 52% of killings of environmental activists in 2025, according to Global Witness.
The latest report from Global Witness highlights a disturbing trend in the treatment of environmental activists in Colombia and Brazil. According to the organization, these two countries accounted for 52% of killings of environmental activists in 2025. This statistic is particularly alarming given the crucial role that activists play in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development.
The high number of killings in Colombia and Brazil is not surprising, given the history of violence and intimidation faced by environmental activists in these countries. Both nations are home to rich biodiversity and natural resources, which can be a source of conflict and tension. In Colombia, for example, the government has struggled to maintain control in rural areas, creating an environment in which armed groups and criminal organizations can operate with relative impunity. In Brazil, the government's rollback of environmental protections and encouragement of development projects have led to increased tensions between activists and powerful economic interests.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, the safety of environmental activists has become an increasingly pressing concern. The report from Global Witness serves as a reminder of the risks faced by those who are working to protect the environment and promote sustainability. In the coming months and years, it will be important to watch how governments and international organizations respond to these trends, and whether they take concrete steps to protect environmental activists and address the root causes of violence and intimidation.
Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. NewsSuite adds analysis for general news readers.