In Colombia, Implementing the Escazú Agreement Is a Matter of Life and Death

Oct 7, 2022 | Laura Furones
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Colombia and other countries in Latin America are some of the world’s deadliest countries for environmental defenders, yet the region is also highly vulnerable and exposed to irreversible impacts of climate change. Over the last ten years, 322 people have been killed in Colombia for their work to defend their land and environment. Mexico, Bolivia, Ecuador, Chile, and Argentina have already moved forward and ratified the Escazú Agreement. In just a few days, the Colombian Congress will have an opportunity to ratify it too. This is an opportunity not to be missed.     

Colombia has consistently recorded some of the highest numbers of killings of land and environmental defenders over the last decade. Yet, there are reasons for optimism.