Global Witness report reveals record killings of environmental activists in Brazil and Colombia

A new annual report released on September 16, 2026, by the non-governmental organization Global Witness highlights a significant increase in violence against environmental defenders. In 2025, the number of murdered activists doubled in Brazil, which now ranks as the world's second most dangerous country for such individuals, following Colombia. Together, these two nations accounted for 52% of all global environmental defender killings recorded last year, with 39 deaths in Colombia and 26 in Brazil.

Much of the violence in Brazil is linked to long-standing land disputes between indigenous populations and large landowners. Carlos Lima, a representative of an organization advocating for the rights of farmers and indigenous groups, noted that the perpetrators operate with a sense of impunity. He emphasized that those who order these murders are rarely arrested or face legal consequences, effectively granting them license to kill without fear of prosecution.

Colombia has retained the position of the most dangerous country for environmental defenders for the seventh consecutive year. Activists in these regions continue to face systemic threats from armed groups, highlighting a persistent crisis that threatens the safety of those working to protect natural resources.