Environmental Activism Under Threat: 200 Killed in 2023 as South America Faces Heavy Toll

Nearly 200 environmental activists were killed last year, with South America bearing the brunt, according to a new report from Global Witness. Here are the stories of three campaigners fighting violent repression in their efforts to protect the environment from illegal exploitation in Ecuador, Indonesia, and Uganda.

“We Have a Responsibility”

Daniel Frits Maurits Tangkilisan, an environmental activist in Indonesia, has endured arrests, assaults, and legal battles over his efforts to protect the Karimunjawa Islands National Park from illegal shrimp farms. Despite the dangers, Tangkilisan remains steadfast. “Why be afraid? Why back down? Your home should be defended,” he said. After launching the #SaveKarimunjawa movement, Daniel has seen some success, with government inspections closing many illegal operations. But his fight continues, as his case has reached Indonesia’s Supreme Court.

“Hell on Earth”

Abdulaziz Bweete, a 26-year-old Ugandan activist, has faced brutal repression in his fight against a multi-billion-dollar oil project that threatens the local environment. Arrested and tortured by police after leading protests, Bweete describes his experience in prison as “hell on Earth.” Despite facing severe opposition, he insists that climate justice in Uganda is inextricably linked to political change. “If we have good leaders, we can have good climate policies,” Bweete says, determined to keep fighting for his country’s future.

“Defend Life”

Alex Lucitante, a leader of Ecuador’s Cofan Indigenous people, achieved a landmark legal victory in 2018 when he helped stop 52 gold mining concessions in the Amazon. But the threats haven’t ceased. Illegal mining, deforestation, and armed groups continue to endanger his community. “The destruction is still going on all around our land,” Lucitante warns. He calls on global leaders to listen to Indigenous voices and urges action to “defend life” before it’s too late.