The Price of Protecting Our Planet: Three Defenders Share Their Stories of Courage and Resilience
Environmental activism is a dangerous game, and the stakes have never been higher. Since 2012, over 2,100 environmental defenders have lost their lives to violence, according to Global Witness. This shocking statistic is a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who dare to stand up for our planet. But here's where it gets even more alarming: in 2023 alone, 196 land and environmental defenders were killed worldwide, highlighting the escalating dangers in this critical fight.
At the 2024 U.N. Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, Mongabay had the privilege of speaking with three extraordinary individuals from Colombia, Uganda, and the Philippines. These environmental defenders shared their personal journeys, shedding light on the immense challenges they face in their respective countries. Despite the limitations on protests within the city, they, along with other activists from developing nations, raised their voices to advocate for a just transition to clean energy, equity, inclusion, and global climate policies that truly work for everyone.
Meet the Defenders:
Gina Marcela Cortés Valderrama (Colombia): A passionate advocate for climate and gender justice, Gina focuses on the intersections of feminism, decoloniality, and degrowth. She highlights the alarming increase in killings of human rights defenders and social leaders in Colombia, even after the 2016 peace accord. In 2023, 79 environmental human rights defenders were killed, most from ethnic communities and campesinos fighting to protect their land.
Bob Barigye (Uganda): Bob bravely opposes the controversial East African Crude Oil Pipeline, a 1,443-kilometer project threatening the ecosystem around Lake Albert. His activism has led to arrests and imprisonment, yet he remains steadfast in his commitment to protecting Uganda's environment.
Rhoda Dalang (Philippines): With over five decades of experience, Rhoda works tirelessly for the Center for Development Programs in the Cordillera, advocating for human rights and Indigenous peoples facing discrimination and social inequalities. She highlights the chilling reality in the Philippines: more leaders have been killed or disappeared than incarcerated.
The Challenges They Face:
These defenders face a myriad of obstacles, from censorship and repression to violence and intimidation. And this is the part most people miss: the authorities often resort to tactics like labeling activists as terrorists, freezing their accounts, and portraying them as insane to undermine community support. The situation is particularly dire for female activists, who face additional violence during arrests.
What Drives Their Hope?
Despite the immense risks, these defenders remain unwavering in their commitment. Gina draws strength from the feminist movement's belief in abundance and the power of collective action. Bob finds motivation in the small acts of resistance, like reading the names of those who have died due to war, reminding him of the importance of speaking out. Rhoda, while hoping to avoid terrorism financing charges, remains dedicated to the cause, emphasizing that there is no retirement from this fight.
A Call to Action:
Their stories are a powerful reminder of the human cost of environmental protection. But here's the controversial part: while these defenders risk everything, those responsible for environmental destruction often seek funding for climate justice initiatives at international conferences. This raises a crucial question: How can we ensure that funding truly reaches those on the frontlines, fighting for a sustainable future?
The fight for environmental justice is far from over. These three defenders, along with countless others, continue to inspire us with their courage and resilience. Their stories demand our attention, our support, and our action. What will you do to stand with them?
