Venezuela

In the wake of a decade scarred by violence against environmental activists, urgent measures are needed to ensure their safety and protection worldwide. In the perilous jungles of Venezuela, Indigenous territorial guards faced the tragic loss of their leader, Virgilio Trujillo Arana, in June 2023, defenders faced threats and deadly conflict over land and resources. Global Witness reports a shocking 1,733 killings of environmental defenders in the past decade, highlighting the dire need for action. While governmental support is crucial, broader societal engagement is essential for lasting change. Land conflicts, often tied to industries like mining and agribusiness, disproportionately target Indigenous peoples, who bear the brunt of these attacks despite constituting a mere fraction of the global population. Despite the risks, defenders have achieved significant victories, as revealed by the ENVJUSTICE study showing their contributions to canceling harmful projects. International agreements like the European Union supply chain law and the Escazú Agreement offer hope, but effective implementation is key. The appointment of Michel Forst as U.N. special rapporteur signals progress in bridging human rights and environmental protection. Holding perpetrators accountable, reforming legal frameworks, and promoting positive narratives about defenders are essential steps. International support must prioritize community protection and unity. Only through collective action can we heal the wounds inflicted on our defenders and our planet.