Global Witness: At Least 124 Environmental Defenders Killed Worldwide in 2025 — Colombia, Brazil Hit Hardest

A report released on Wednesday by non-governmental organisation Global Witness found that at least 124 environmental advocates were killed worldwide in 2025. The victims include community leaders, Indigenous people and small-scale farmers who defend land, rivers and forests from destructive projects.

Who Was Targeted and Why

Most victims were Indigenous people or small-scale farmers. People campaigning against mining, logging, large-scale agriculture, poaching and energy projects were frequently singled out, according to the group's annual analysis.

Country and Regional Breakdown

For the fourth consecutive year, Colombia was the most dangerous country for environmental defenders, with 39 killings. Brazil recorded 26 victims, while Honduras and the Philippines each reported 12 deaths. Overall, Latin America accounted for 85% of all killings, making it the deadliest region for defenders since Global Witness began publishing its annual report in 2012.

Global figures fell compared with some previous years, but Global Witness cautioned that the real number is likely higher because many attacks and killings go unreported or are not properly investigated.

"It's thanks to them that we know when ecosystems are being destroyed, where forests are being cleared or rivers polluted. The violence that defenders face, including killings in the most extreme cases, reflects a much broader struggle over the world's land and resources," said Toby Hill, lead author of the report.

The report highlights the ongoing risks faced by frontline defenders and calls attention to the broader social and economic forces driving violence over land and natural resources. Global Witness urged stronger protections, better investigations and greater accountability for those who attack environmental defenders.