Global Witness: 124 environmental defenders killed in 2025, 85% in Latin America

Global Witness reports at least 124 land and environmental defenders were killed in 2025, with 85% of killings in Latin America, continuing a documented pattern of violence against activists. The figure is lower than the 146 killed or disappeared in 2024, but underreporting remains a concern. This highlights persistent risks for environmental activism in the region, with implications for resource governance and human rights.