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Belarus Releases Prisoners in Strategic Diversion: Rights Activists’ Perspective Rights activists view the recent release of prisoners in Belarus as a calculated diversion, signaling the government’s attempts to manage international attention amid ongoin

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

belarus Prisoner releases: A Diplomatic Maneuver or Genuine Reform?

Table of Contents


Bratislava – Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko‘s recent pardoning of political prisoners, a move seemingly aimed at fostering improved relations with the United States, is being met with skepticism from human rights organizations. Concerns are mounting that thes releases represent a calculated strategy rather than a genuine shift towards political reform within the nation.

Prisoner Releases and Diplomatic Overtures

Last month, President Lukashenko ordered the liberation of over 75 individuals identified as political prisoners, following discussions with American officials. This action was coupled with an easing of sanctions imposed on Belavia,belarus’s state-owned airline. Simultaneously, reports indicate that US president Donald Trump has expressed a desire to reopen the US embassy in Minsk and has even discussed a potential meeting with Lukashenko.

Political analysts suggest that a warming of ties with Washington and the rollback of sanctions would provide a significant public relations victory for Lukashenko. Such developments could also appeal to President Trump, bolstering his image as a negotiator capable of securing the release of political prisoners and promoting human rights.

A Revolving Door of Repression

Despite the releases, rights groups caution against interpreting these actions as a sign of diminishing repression within Belarus. Maria Guryeva, a Senior Campaigner at Amnesty International, voiced concern that international attention might potentially be diverted from the continuing human rights abuses. “While the release of prisoners is positive, it doesn’t negate the fact that individuals are still being incarcerated for exercising their essential rights,” Guryeva stated.”The situation resembles a revolving door – people are released, while simultaneously, more are arrested.”

according to Viasna, a Belarusian human rights institution, as of September 18th, 1,184 individuals were classified as political prisoners in Belarus. This figure underscores the ongoing scale of political persecution.

Tactical Releases and Forced Exile

Critics also point out that the timing of some releases was coincidental, coinciding with the nearing completion of sentences. Moreover, many freed prisoners faced immediate deportation to neighboring Lithuania, effectively exiling them from their homeland. Opposition politician Mikalai Statkevich, for example, was re-arrested after refusing to comply with deportation orders.

anastasiia Kroupe, an Assistant Researcher at Human Rights watch, contends that the regime is leveraging political prisoners as “bargaining chips” to secure political concessions.This tactic, if successful, could encourage continued use of arbitrary detention as a tool for diplomatic maneuvering.

Mixed Reactions from Released Prisoners and Exiles

The reactions to the releases have been diverse. While some former prisoners expressed relief at regaining their freedom, others voiced anger and frustration. Enira Bronitskaya, an activist with Human Constanta, noted that many released individuals had already served substantial portions of their sentences and were seeking to rebuild their lives in Belarus, only to be forcibly exiled.

Within the Belarusian diaspora,sentiments are equally divided. Maryna Morozova, a Belarussian expatriate living in Poland, expressed a belief that the releases might potentially be a prelude to a harsher crackdown on dissent.

Release Date Number of Prisoners Released Context
September 11, 2025 52 Negotiations with US officials; easing of sanctions on Belavia
September 16, 2025 25 Continued negotiations with US officials

Recent events reinforce these anxieties.Shortly after the initial releases, journalist ihar Ilyash was sentenced to four years in prison on extremism charges, highlighting the continued suppression of autonomous media. The Belarusian Association of Journalists reports that at least 27 journalists are currently incarcerated.

Did you Know? Belarus has been ruled by alexander Lukashenko for over three decades, making him one of Europe’s longest-serving leaders.

The path Forward

Campaigners are urging international governments to prioritize human rights in any future dealings with the Belarusian regime.They emphasize the importance of resisting the temptation to view prisoner releases as a sign of genuine progress, and advocate for unconditional releases of all political prisoners.

Pro Tip: stay informed about the human rights situation in Belarus through reputable organizations like Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Viasna.

Long-Term Implications

The situation in Belarus highlights the complex interplay between geopolitics and human rights. The use of political prisoners as bargaining chips is a tactic employed by authoritarian regimes globally. The international community’s response will set a precedent for future cases of political repression and diplomatic negotiations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Belarus and Political Prisoners

  • What is the current political climate in Belarus? The political climate remains highly repressive, with ongoing restrictions on freedom of speech, assembly, and the press.
  • Who is Alexander Lukashenko? He is the long-standing President of Belarus, often criticized for his authoritarian rule and suppression of opposition.
  • What is the role of the United States in the current situation? The US is engaged in negotiations with Belarus, seeking concessions on human rights in exchange for easing sanctions.
  • How many political prisoners are currently held in Belarus? As of September 18, 2025, Viasna reports 1,184 political prisoners are detained in Belarus.
  • Why are prisoner releases happening now? The releases are believed to be a strategic effort by Lukashenko to improve his country’s international standing and secure diplomatic advantages.
  • Is the situation for journalists in Belarus safe? No, at least 27 journalists are currently imprisoned, signaling a continued crackdown on independent media.
  • What can be done to support Belarusian human rights activists? Supporting organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, and advocating for stronger international pressure on the Belarusian goverment.

What are your thoughts on the recent prisoner releases? Do you beleive they signal genuine reform, or a calculated political move? Share your opinion in the comments below!

What specific evidence leads activists to believe the prisoner releases are strategically timed to deflect international scrutiny?

Belarus Releases Prisoners in Strategic Diversion: Rights Activists’ Viewpoint

The Context of Recent Prisoner Releases

Recent reports indicate a release of prisoners in Belarus, a move promptly met with skepticism from human rights organizations. While any release is inherently positive for those directly affected, activists argue this action is strategically timed and designed to deflect international scrutiny from the ongoing, systemic human rights abuses within the country.This isn’t simply about freeing individuals; it’s about managing perceptions and potentially easing international pressure. The releases coincide with heightened global attention on Belarus’s political climate and its relationship with Russia, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Why activists See a Diversionary Tactic

The core concern revolves around the timing and selective nature of the releases. Rights groups emphasize that these releases shouldn’t overshadow the continued detention of numerous political prisoners and the broader crackdown on dissent.

Here’s a breakdown of the key arguments:

* Strategic Timing: The releases occur during periods of increased international focus on Belarus, potentially aiming to create a narrative of positive change.

* Selective Releases: Reports suggest the released prisoners are not necessarily those facing the most severe charges or representing the most prominent cases of political repression.

* Lack of Systemic Change: The releases don’t address the underlying issues of political repression, including restrictive laws, biased judicial processes, and the suppression of freedom of speech and assembly.

* Facts Control: The Belarusian government maintains tight control over information, making autonomous verification of the releases and the conditions surrounding them arduous.

The Scale of Political Repression in Belarus

Understanding the context requires acknowledging the extensive scale of political repression in Belarus. Following the disputed 2020 presidential election, the government launched a widespread crackdown on opposition figures, journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens who participated in protests.

Key statistics (as of late 2025, based on reports from organizations like Viasna Human Rights Center):

* Political Prisoners: Over 1,400 individuals are currently recognized as political prisoners.

* Detention Conditions: Reports consistently detail harsh detention conditions, including overcrowding, lack of medical care, and psychological pressure.

* Sham Trials: Many detainees have been subjected to unfair trials lacking due process, frequently enough resulting in lengthy prison sentences based on politically motivated charges.

* Suppression of Civil Society: Numerous NGOs and independant media outlets have been shut down or forced to operate in exile.

Case Studies: Illustrating the Pattern of Repression

Several high-profile cases exemplify the pattern of political repression in Belarus:

* Maria Kolesnikova: A prominent opposition figure who was arrested in 2020 and sentenced to 11 years in prison on charges of organizing mass unrest.

* Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: The main opposition candidate in the 2020 election, forced to flee the country and continues to lead the opposition from exile.

* Journalists and Media Workers: Dozens of journalists have been arrested and imprisoned for their reporting, with independent media outlets facing constant pressure and censorship.

These cases, and countless others, highlight the systematic nature of the repression and the risks faced by those who challenge the government.

The Role of International Pressure and Advocacy

Human rights activists emphasize the crucial role of sustained international pressure and advocacy in securing the release of political prisoners and promoting human rights in Belarus.

Effective strategies include:

* Targeted Sanctions: imposing sanctions on individuals and entities responsible for human rights abuses.

* Diplomatic Pressure: Engaging in diplomatic efforts to raise concerns about human rights violations and demand accountability.

* Support for Civil Society: providing financial and logistical support to Belarusian civil society organizations operating both within and outside the country.

* Raising Awareness: Increasing public awareness about the human rights situation in Belarus through media coverage,advocacy campaigns,and parliamentary initiatives.

* Monitoring and Reporting: Continuously monitoring and documenting human rights violations to ensure accountability and inform policy decisions.

Beyond Releases: Addressing Systemic Issues

The focus must extend beyond individual prisoner releases to address the systemic issues that fuel political repression in Belarus. This requires:

* Legal Reforms: Reforming laws that restrict freedom of speech, assembly, and association.

* Judicial independence: Ensuring the independence and impartiality of the judiciary.

* Accountability for Abuses: Investigating and prosecuting those responsible for human rights violations.

* Free and Fair Elections: Holding free and fair elections that meet international standards.

* Respect for Human Rights: Upholding the basic human rights of all citizens

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The Rise of Authoritarianism: Five Years of Global Challenges and Implications

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
The Rise of Authoritarianism: Five Years of Global Challenges and Implications
Credit: Pavel Bednyakov/Pool via Reuters
  • Opinion by Inés M. Pousadela (montevideo, uruguay)
  • Inter Press Service

MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay, October 3 (IPS) – When Mali’s former Prime Minister Moussa Mara stood trial in Bamako’s cybercrime court on 29 September, charged with undermining state authority for expressing solidarity with political prisoners on social media, his prosecution represented far more than one person’s fate. It epitomised how thoroughly the military junta has dismantled Mali’s democratic foundations, five years after seizing power with promises of swift reform.

Just a week before Mara’s trial, Mali joined fellow military-run states Burkina Faso and Niger in announcing immediate withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC). Although the withdrawal won’t take effect for a year and the ICC retains jurisdiction over past crimes, the message was unmistakable: Mali’s military rulers intend to operate beyond international legal constraints.

This follows a pattern of escalating repression, including arrests of senior generals and civilians over alleged conspiracy in August, coming months after sweeping decrees outlawed political parties and dissolved all organised opposition. Rather than preparing for the democratic handover initially promised for 2022 and repeatedly postponed, the junta is methodically shutting down what remains of Mali’s civic space.

A transition derailed

When General Assimi Goïta first seized power in August 2020 following mass protests over corruption and insecurity, he pledged to oversee a quick return to civilian rule. But less than a year later, he staged a second coup to sideline transitional civilian leaders. In 2023, the junta organised a constitutional referendum, claiming it would pave the way to democracy. The new constitution, supposedly approved by 97 per cent of voters, provided for significantly strengthened presidential powers while conveniently granting amnesty to coup participants. Deadlines for elections kept slipping, and they’re now effectively off the table until at least 2030.

A national consultation held in April, boycotted by virtually all major political parties, recommended appointing Goïta as president for a renewable five-year term until 2030, obviously contradicting any pledges to restore multi-party democracy.

An all-out assault on political parties ensued. Presidential decrees in May suspended all parties, revoked the 2005 Charter of Political Parties that provided the legal framework for political competition and dissolved close to 300 parties, forbidding all meetings or activities under threat of prosecution. Courts predictably rejected appeals, having become beholden to the executive under the 2023 constitutional changes that gave Goïta absolute control over Supreme Court appointments. The regime announced a new law on political parties to sharply restrict their number and impose stricter formation requirements, making clear it wants a tightly managed political landscape stripped of genuine pluralism.

Crushing civic freedoms

The assault on civic space extends beyond political parties. The junta has suspended civil society groups receiving foreign funding, imposed stringent regulatory controls and introduced draft legislation aimed at taxing civil society organisations. Independent media face systematic silencing through licence suspensions and revocations, astronomic increases in licence fees and weaponised cybercrime laws targeting journalists with vague charges such as undermining state credibility and spreading false information. Religious figures, opposition leaders and civil society activists have faced arrests, enforced disappearances and show trials.

The crackdown sparked the first major public resistance to military rule since 2020, with thousands protesting in Bamako in early May against the party ban and extension of Goïta’s mandate, only to be dispersed with teargas. Planned follow-up protests were cancelled after organisers received warnings of violent retaliation. The regime has made clear it won’t tolerate peaceful dissent.

What lies ahead

Five years after seizing power, Mali keeps taking the opposite path to democracy. The initial coup enjoyed some popular support, fuelled by anger at corruption and the civilian government’s failure to address jihadist insurgencies. But no improvements have come. Jihadist groups are still killing thousands every year, while the Malian army and its new Russian mercenary allies, following the departure of French and allied forces, routinely commit atrocities against civilians. Meanwhile the freedoms that would allow people to voice grievances and demand accountability have been systematically stripped away.

Mali’s trajectory matters beyond its borders. It was the first in a series of Central and West African countries to fall under military rule in recent years and is now spearheading a regional pushback against global democracy and human rights standards. The international community has responded with condemnations from UN human rights experts and documentation from civil society groups, but these statements carry little weight. Economic Community of West African States sanctions lost their leverage when Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger withdrew to form the rival Alliance of Sahel States, creating a bloc of authoritarian military regimes that coordinate to suppress dissent across borders, backed by stronger ties to Russia.

What began as a supposed corrective to civilian misrule has hardened into outright authoritarianism dressed in the language of national security and public order. The junta has eliminated any domestic institution that might constrain its power and is now casting aside even international accountability mechanisms.

In this bleak context, Malian civil society activists, journalists and opposition figures continue speaking out at tremendous personal risk. Their courage demands more than statements of condemnation. It calls for tangible support in the form of emergency funding, secure communication channels, legal assistance, temporary refuge and sustained diplomatic pressure. The international community’s commitment to human rights and democratic values, in Mali and across Central and West Africa, must translate into meaningful solidarity with those risking everything to defend them.

Inés M. Pousadela is CIVICUS Head of Research and Analysis, co-director and writer for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.

For interviews or more information, please contact [email protected]

© Inter Press Service (20251003093335) — All Rights Reserved. Original source: Inter Press Service

How might the increasing use of artificial intelligence by authoritarian regimes impact global human rights over the next decade?

The Rise of Authoritarianism: Five Years of Global Challenges and Implications

the Shifting Global Landscape: 2020-2025

The past five years (2020-2025) have witnessed a concerning global trend: a resurgence of authoritarian tendencies. While democratic institutions haven’t collapsed wholesale, a steady erosion of democratic norms, coupled with the rise of populist and nationalist movements, has created a fertile ground for authoritarian practices. This isn’t simply a return to traditional dictatorship; itS a more nuanced and often insidious form of control, leveraging technology, exploiting societal anxieties, and often masking itself within the framework of existing political systems. Key terms driving this shift include political polarization, democratic backsliding, illiberal democracy, and nationalism.

Defining Modern Authoritarianism: Beyond Traditional Dictatorships

Contemporary authoritarianism differs significantly from the totalitarian regimes of the 20th century. It’s characterized by:

* Erosion of Checks and Balances: Weakening of self-reliant judiciaries, curtailing the power of legislatures, and concentrating power in the executive branch.

* Suppression of Dissent: Restrictions on freedom of speech, assembly, and the press, frequently enough justified by national security concerns.This includes increased surveillance and censorship.

* Control of Information: Manipulation of media narratives, spread of disinformation, and control over online platforms.

* Weaponization of Law: Using legal systems to target political opponents and suppress dissent.

* Cult of Personality: Promoting a strong leader figure and fostering unquestioning loyalty.

A critical concept to understand is “responsive authoritarianism,” as highlighted in recent analyses. This describes a system where rulers respond to the perceived needs of the population – offering economic benefits or addressing grievances – to legitimize their authoritarian control. This is not benevolence, but a calculated strategy to maintain power.

Regional Hotspots and Case Studies

Several regions have experienced a marked increase in authoritarian practices:

* Eastern Europe: countries like Hungary and Poland have seen democratic institutions weakened through judicial reforms and media control. Concerns over rule of law and human rights are paramount.

* Asia: The crackdown on dissent in Hong Kong, the increasing authoritarianism in the Philippines, and the continued suppression of freedoms in countries like Vietnam demonstrate a worrying trend.

* Africa: Several African nations have witnessed coups or attempts to subvert democratic processes,often fueled by economic instability and political corruption.

* Latin America: Political polarization and economic hardship have contributed to the rise of populist leaders with authoritarian tendencies in countries like Venezuela and, increasingly, in parts of Central america.

* Western Democracies: Even established democracies haven’t been immune. The rise of populist movements in the US and Europe, coupled with concerns about election integrity and the spread of disinformation, represent a subtle but meaningful challenge to democratic norms.

Case Study: Myanmar (2021 Coup) – The military coup in Myanmar in February 2021 serves as a stark example of a blatant seizure of power, resulting in widespread human rights abuses and a brutal crackdown on pro-democracy protests. this event underscores the fragility of democratic transitions and the willingness of authoritarian regimes to use force to maintain control.

The Role of Technology in Authoritarian control

Technology plays a dual role in the rise of authoritarianism. While it can empower citizens and facilitate democratic participation, it also provides powerful tools for surveillance, censorship, and manipulation.

* Surveillance Technologies: Facial recognition, data mining, and social media monitoring allow governments to track and control citizens.

* Censorship and Internet Control: Blocking access to information, filtering content, and shutting down social media platforms are common tactics.

* Disinformation Campaigns: The spread of fake news and propaganda through social media can manipulate public opinion and undermine trust in democratic institutions.

* Cyberattacks: Targeting critical infrastructure and interfering in elections are increasingly common forms of authoritarian aggression.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in surveillance and censorship is a especially concerning growth, as it allows for automated and large-scale control of information and populations.

Economic Factors and Authoritarian Resilience

Economic factors significantly contribute to the rise and resilience of authoritarian regimes.

* Economic Inequality: High levels of economic inequality can fuel social unrest and create a sense of grievance that authoritarian leaders can exploit.

* Corruption: Widespread corruption undermines trust in government and creates opportunities for authoritarian leaders to consolidate power.

* Resource Dependence: Countries heavily reliant on natural resources are often more vulnerable to authoritarianism, as control over these resources can be used to fund repression

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Ocean Protection: Pacific Voices & Global Issues

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

The Pacific’s Oceanic Renaissance: How Indigenous Wisdom is Rewriting Ocean Conservation

For generations, Western science has dominated the narrative around ocean health. But a powerful shift is underway, originating from the very communities most vulnerable to its decline. The Second Pacific Island Ocean Conference in Honiara wasn’t just another gathering of policymakers and scientists; it was a resounding call to integrate traditional knowledge with modern science – a renaissance of Oceanic wisdom that promises a more effective, equitable, and resilient future for our planet’s largest ecosystem.

Beyond Data: The Untapped Power of Ancestral Memory

The Pacific Ocean isn’t simply a geographical feature for its island nations; it’s woven into the fabric of their identity, history, and survival. As Dr. Salanieta Kitolelei of the Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Studies pointed out, Pacific navigators possessed an unparalleled understanding of the ocean’s rhythms long before the advent of satellites and supercomputers. This isn’t folklore; it’s a sophisticated system of observation and prediction passed down through generations.

This ancestral memory is proving invaluable in addressing the escalating challenges of climate change. Jerome Aucan, Head of the Pacific Community Centre for Ocean Science, highlighted how elders’ recollections of past storms – wave heights, inundation patterns, and damage assessments – are filling critical data gaps, particularly in regions with limited historical instrument records. This isn’t simply anecdotal evidence; it’s a robust dataset built on decades, even centuries, of lived experience. As Aucan emphasized, it’s “evidence…and it is indispensable.”

Weaving the Strands: Integrating Traditional Practices with Scientific Solutions

The conference showcased numerous examples of this powerful synergy. Coral restoration projects in Fiji, where scientists and villagers collaborate to transplant resilient coral species, demonstrate a practical application of combined knowledge. Similarly, the enduring practice of tabu areas – temporarily closing reefs to allow fish stocks to regenerate – mirrors modern fisheries management techniques. Dr. Noan Pakop, Director General of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency, noted how integrating these community-based practices with scientific stock assessments has led to more sustainable tuna management across the region.

Leausalilo Leilani Duffy of Conservation International Samoa succinctly captured the essence of this approach: “We have already been doing the weaving.” The challenge now lies in expanding this integration and showcasing its effectiveness to the world. This isn’t about replacing scientific rigor; it’s about enriching it with a depth of understanding that only comes from generations of intimate connection with the ocean.

Ocean Governance: A New Paradigm for the 21st Century

The recognition of traditional knowledge isn’t merely a matter of respect; it’s a strategic imperative. Dr. Filimon Manoni, Commissioner for the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner (OPOC), stressed the need for a “comprehensive, robust framework” that coordinates activities across sectors and prioritizes the lived experiences of Pacific peoples. OPOC is actively working to embed both traditional knowledge and modern science into regional ocean governance structures.

However, challenges remain. Pacific leaders voiced concerns that Western science continues to dominate global negotiations on climate, biodiversity, and ocean governance. A more equitable recognition of Indigenous knowledge systems is crucial, not just for the Pacific, but for the world. The Pacific’s approach offers a compelling model for holistic ocean management, one that prioritizes sustainability, resilience, and cultural preservation.

The Role of Indigenous Navigation in Climate Resilience

The ancient art of wayfinding, practiced for millennia by Pacific navigators, offers valuable insights into understanding and adapting to changing ocean conditions. These skills, honed over generations, involved reading subtle cues in the stars, swells, and winds – indicators that are becoming increasingly erratic due to climate change. Researchers are now exploring how these traditional navigation techniques can be integrated with modern forecasting models to improve early warning systems and enhance coastal resilience. UNESCO’s Sustainable Ocean Navigation program is a key initiative in this area.

A Global Lesson: The Pacific as a Blueprint for Ocean Stewardship

The Pacific’s vision – to protect 100% of its ocean and sustainably manage at least 30% – aligns with global biodiversity targets, but its approach is uniquely rooted in community, culture, and connection. This isn’t simply about conservation; it’s about survival. As Leilani Duffy powerfully stated, “Conservation is not something we imported. It has always been part of our lives.” The Pacific’s greatest gift to the world is demonstrating that respect for the ocean isn’t a new agenda – it’s a fundamental way of life.

What are your thoughts on how we can better integrate traditional ecological knowledge into global conservation efforts? Share your insights in the comments below!

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**Global Crisis: 146 Land and Environmental Defenders Killed or Disappeared in 2022**

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor




Global crisis: 146 Land and Environmental Defenders Silenced in 2024

Julia Francisco Martínez at her husband's graveside.
Julia Francisco Martínez stands at the graveside of her husband juan, a Honduran Indigenous defender who was found murdered in 2015. Credit: Giles Clarke / Global Witness

London & Srinagar – A staggering 146 individuals who bravely defended land and environmental rights were murdered or forcibly disappeared worldwide in 2024, according to a recently released report. The findings underscore a continuing global crisis, revealing a pattern of violence against those challenging powerful interests, with little accountability for perpetrators.

A Disturbing Decline in Safety

Although the number of reported killings represents a slight decrease from the 196 recorded in 2023, experts caution against interpreting this as genuine progress. Underreporting, difficulties in verifying incidents within active conflict zones, and an atmosphere of fear that compels victims’ families and communities into silence all contribute to an incomplete picture. The true extent of the violence is likely much greater.

Latin America Remains the Epicenter

The report pinpointed Latin America as the most dangerous region,accounting for 82 percent of all documented killings in 2024.Colombia topped the list with 48 deaths, representing nearly one-third of global cases. Victims predominantly comprised community leaders, Indigenous rights advocates, and smallholder farmers opposing Mining operations , agribusiness expansion, and organized crime.

Mexico followed with 19 documented cases, while Brazil registered 12 killings, many targeting small-scale farmers. Guatemala experienced a especially alarming surge in violence, with killings rising from four in 2023 to 20 in 2024, establishing the country with the highest per capita murder rate for defenders globally. This escalation occurred despite a change in leadership and promises of reform.

Country Number of Killings/Disappearances (2024)
Colombia 48
Mexico 19
brazil 12
guatemala 20
Total (Latin America) 82% of Global Total

Who is at Risk?

The report identified distinct patterns in the individuals most frequently targeted. Indigenous defenders and small-scale farmers collectively represented nearly two-thirds of all cases-45 of each were killed or disappeared during 2024. These attacks are often directly linked to profitable industries, with Mining being the deadliest sector, associated with 29 killings. Logging contributed to eight deaths, and agribusiness to four.

organized crime was implicated in nearly a third of all attacks, frequently operating in collaboration with or with the tacit approval of state forces. Disturbingly, State actors -including police and military personnel- were linked to 17 killings. In Colombia, a mere 5.2 percent of murders targeting social leaders since 2002 have resulted in convictions, allowing those responsible to act with impunity.

The Challenge of Impunity and documentation

Global Witness systematically gathers this data by reviewing publicly available data, analyzing datasets, and collaborating with local and regional organizations across more than 20 countries. Each case requires self-reliant verification from credible sources, detailing the victim’s identity and thier connection to land or environmental defense.Despite these efforts, the organization acknowledges that the actual number of attacks is highly likely an underestimate due to challenges in documenting violence in authoritarian regimes, regions with limited civil society presence, and active conflict zones.

Stories Behind the Statistics

Beyond the numbers lie individual stories illustrating the human cost of this crisis. In Nigeria, the Ekuri community, long committed to protecting one of West Africa’s remaining tropical rainforests, faces threats from armed loggers and corrupt officials. Activist Odey Oyama was arrested in January 2025 and falsely charged with inciting communal conflict,a charge that carries a life sentence.In Chile, 72-year-old Mapuche leader Julia Chufil disappeared in November 2024 while defending ancestral land from forestry corporations. In Colombia, Campesino leader Jani Silva continues to recieve state protection due to persistent death threats, though she describes the measures as isolating.

Escalating Repression Tactics

The report emphasizes that lethal attacks represent only the most visible form of violence against defenders. They also endure harassment, sexual violence, smear campaigns, and criminalization.There is a growing trend of restrictive laws being enacted globally to criminalize peaceful protest. Moreover, the use of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) and toxic narratives aimed at discrediting defenders are eroding protections.

Did You Know? Indigenous Peoples manage over a third of Earth’s protected land and consistently demonstrate more effective conservation outcomes than many officially protected areas.

The Long-Term Implications

The escalating violence against land and environmental defenders poses a serious threat to global conservation efforts and the fight against climate change. These individuals often stand as the first line of defense against deforestation, unsustainable resource extraction, and environmental degradation.

Their protection is not solely a matter of human rights; it is intrinsically linked to the health of the planet. Supporting these defenders is crucial for achieving lasting growth goals and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a land and environmental defender? A person who takes action to protect land, natural resources, or the environment from harm, often in the face of opposition from powerful interests.
  • Why are land defenders being targeted? They are often seen as obstacles to profitable activities like mining, logging, and large-scale agriculture.
  • What is the role of impunity in this crisis? A lack of accountability for perpetrators emboldens further violence and creates a climate of fear.
  • What can be done to protect land defenders? Strengthening laws, increasing accountability, and providing adequate protection mechanisms are crucial steps.
  • How does this impact climate change? Land defenders often protect forests and ecosystems that are vital for carbon sequestration and climate regulation.
  • What role do corporations play in this violence? Corporations involved in extractive industries can contribute to violence through their actions or inaction.
  • Is this violence limited to certain regions? While Latin America is the most affected region, land defenders face threats globally.


what steps can governments take to improve the safety of land and environmental defenders in your region? Share your thoughts in the comments below,and share this article to raise awareness about this critical issue.

How does the increasing violence against land and environmental defenders correlate with resource extraction activities?

Global Crisis: 146 Land and Environmental Defenders Killed or Disappeared in 2022

The Escalating Violence Against Environmental activists

In 2022, a harrowing 146 land and environmental defenders where killed, and countless others disappeared, according to Global Witness and other monitoring organizations. This represents a continuation of a disturbing trend, highlighting the immense risks faced by individuals and communities fighting to protect our planet. These defenders – including indigenous peoples, farmers, journalists, and human rights advocates – are on the front lines of conservation, frequently enough challenging powerful economic interests. The term “environmental defender” encompasses a broad range of activists working on issues like deforestation, mining, water rights, and climate change.

Regional Breakdown of Attacks: Hotspots of Violence

The violence isn’t evenly distributed. Certain regions consistently experience a disproportionately high number of attacks against land and environmental defenders:

* Colombia: Remains the most dangerous country, with 60 killings recorded in 2022. Conflicts over land, illegal mining, and drug trafficking fuel much of the violence.

* Honduras: Experienced 26 killings, largely linked to conflicts over land rights and agricultural projects.

* Mexico: Saw 14 killings, often connected to logging, mining, and water defense.

* Brazil: Recorded 31 killings, primarily targeting defenders opposing deforestation in the Amazon rainforest and land grabbing.

* Philippines: 11 killings were reported, frequently linked to resistance against mining operations and logging.

These figures, while stark, are likely underestimates due to underreporting and difficulties in investigating crimes in remote areas. The data consistently points to a correlation between increased resource extraction and heightened risk for defenders.

Who is Targeting Environmental Defenders?

Identifying the perpetrators is crucial to addressing the crisis. The attacks are rarely random acts of violence. Common actors include:

* Paramilitary Groups & Organized Crime: Frequently enough hired by businesses to intimidate or eliminate opposition.

* Security Forces: State actors sometimes directly participate in or turn a blind eye to violence against defenders.

* Corporations & Businesses: While rarely directly implicated in killings, their pursuit of profit frequently enough creates the conditions that lead to violence. Industries like logging, mining, agribusiness, and hydropower are frequently linked to attacks.

* Land Grabbers: individuals or groups illegally seizing land, often displacing communities and destroying ecosystems.

The Intersection of Environmental defense and Human Rights

The attacks on land and environmental defenders are fundamentally human rights violations. They frequently enough target vulnerable populations, including Indigenous communities, who have a deep connection to the land and rely on it for their livelihoods and cultural survival.

* Indigenous Rights: Indigenous peoples are disproportionately affected, representing a significant percentage of those killed. Their traditional knowledge and stewardship are vital for conservation.

* Right to a Healthy Environment: The defense of land and the environment is intrinsically linked to the right to a healthy environment, recognized by the UN human Rights Council.

* Freedom of Expression: Journalists and activists documenting environmental crimes are also frequently targeted, silencing critical voices.

Case Study: Berta Cáceres and the Lenca People of Honduras

The 2016 assassination of Berta Cáceres, a Lenca Indigenous activist in Honduras, remains a potent symbol of the risks faced by environmental defenders. Cáceres led protests against the construction of the Agua zarca hydroelectric dam on lands sacred to her people. Despite investigations and arrests, full justice has yet to be served, highlighting the impunity frequently enough enjoyed by those who target defenders. Her case brought international attention to the plight of environmental activists in Honduras and the broader region.

The Role of Impunity and Lack of Accountability

A key driver of the violence is the pervasive impunity enjoyed by perpetrators. Weak legal frameworks, corruption, and a lack of political will to investigate and prosecute crimes contribute to this problem.

* Weak Legal Protections: Many countries lack adequate laws to protect environmental defenders.

* Corruption: Corruption within law enforcement and the judiciary hinders investigations and allows perpetrators to evade justice.

* Lack of Political Will: governments often prioritize economic interests over the protection of defenders.

what Can Be Done? Supporting Land and Environmental Defenders

Addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach:

* Strengthening Legal Protections: Governments must enact and enforce laws that protect environmental defenders.

* Promoting Accountability: Investigations into attacks must be thorough, impartial, and obvious, with perpetrators brought to justice.

* Supporting Local organizations: Providing financial and logistical support to grassroots organizations working on the ground.

* Corporate Accountability: Holding companies accountable for their environmental and social impacts, including ensuring they do not contribute to violence against defenders.Due diligence processes are crucial.

* International Pressure: International organizations and governments must exert pressure on countries with high rates of violence against defenders.

* Raising Awareness: Increasing public awareness about the plight of environmental defenders and the importance of their work.

Resources for further Data

* Global Witness: https://www.globalwitness.org/

* Front Line Defenders: https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/

* Human Rights Watch: https://www.hrw.org/

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