Nature Defenders Face Deadly Threat, Build Self-Defence Units 2026

Nature defenders are being murdered at an alarming rate, with one killed every three days in 2025, according to a new report by Global Witness. In response, many communities are setting up self-defence units to protect their land and lives.

Global Witness Report: A Shocking Death Toll

The independent watchdog Global Witness released its latest annual death toll, revealing that 124 nature defenders were killed in 2025. Organized crime groups or professional killers were implicated in more than a third of these killings, as narco-trafficking activities increasingly overlap with intrusions into indigenous territories and environmental crimes such as illegal logging and wildcat gold mining.

Latin America accounted for a staggering 85% of last year's deaths. Colombia had the highest toll with 39 killings, followed by Brazil with 26 and Honduras with 12. In Asia, the Philippines was the most dangerous country for defenders, with 12 killings, many during crackdowns by state security forces.

Since Global Witness began compiling statistics in 2012, the overall global tally is now 2,375 deaths and disappearances – a figure on par with a small-scale war. While the headline figure has declined over the last two years, from 196 in 2023 to 142 in 2024, report authors caution that this is likely an underestimate due to difficulties in data collection in war zones and authoritarian regimes.

Why Are Nature Defenders Targeted?

Nature defenders are individuals who protect forests, rivers, and other ecosystems from destruction. They often face threats from powerful interests, including criminal syndicates, agribusiness, and even government forces. The report highlights that many countries and companies are also carrying out nonlethal attacks on defenders, such as smear campaigns, legal harassment, and surveillance.

In Latin America, the overlap between drug trafficking and environmental crime has created a perfect storm. Narco-traffickers clear land for coca cultivation and illegal logging, often targeting indigenous communities that resist. These communities are frequently left with no choice but to organize self-defence units for protection.

Communities Fight Back with Self-Defence Units

In response to the escalating violence, many communities have established self-defence units. These units are typically composed of local volunteers who patrol their territories, monitor illegal activities, and sometimes confront intruders. While these units can provide immediate protection, they also face significant risks, including retaliation from criminal groups and potential legal repercussions.

For example, in Colombia, indigenous groups have formed Guardia Indígena units that use nonviolent tactics to resist land invasions. In Brazil, some communities have partnered with international NGOs to document and report illegal activities. However, the effectiveness of these units varies, and they often operate with limited resources and training.

Key Takeaways

• 124 nature defenders were killed in 2025, with Latin America accounting for 85% of deaths.
• Organized crime groups are involved in over a third of killings, often linked to narco-trafficking and illegal logging.
• Communities are forming self-defence units to protect their land and lives.
• The global death toll since 2012 is 2,375, comparable to a small-scale war.
• Nonlethal attacks, including legal harassment and surveillance, are also on the rise.

Comparing Regional Threats

The threat level varies significantly by region. The table below summarizes the number of killings in the most dangerous countries for nature defenders in 2025.

FAQ

The situation for nature defenders remains dire, but their resilience and determination to protect their lands inspire global action. As communities continue to organize, the world must listen and act to end the violence.

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