A record number of people were killed last year while trying to protect their land and the environment from carbon-intensive industries, according to new research highlighting the risks faced by activists on the frontlines of the climate crisis.

At least 212 land and environmental “defenders” were killed in 2019, according to an annual report by watchdog group Global Witness. 

Many are indigenous people trying to protect tribal land from illegal logging. In other corners of the world, mining and oil and gas drilling are cited as drivers of the rising violence .

“Just at this moment when the voices of these activists are needed more than ever to help us decide how we’re going to have a green recovery after the pandemic, how we’re going to tackle climate change, they’re facing attacks.

“They’re facing the threat of imprisonment, and they’re facing murders in higher numbers than ever.”

Whether they’re tribal leaders in Brazil, student protesters or community organizers opposing mining projects in Colombia, “there are a whole range of often ordinary people, but with extraordinary expertise and activism,” said Leather.

“Often they’re calling out big businesses that are carrying out abuses, some of whom have European investments,” he added, urging governments to protect these activists and bring their attackers to justice.

“We’re also calling on the EU and others to put in place regulations to make sure that their businesses aren’t associated with these kinds of threats and attacks,” he said.