On October 29, 2024, concerns were raised regarding the safety of environmental defenders, with 193 reported killings in 2023. Repression isn’t limited to dictatorships; even democracies struggle to protect these individuals from corporate interests. Activists face significant risks for standing against environmental exploitation, prompting urgent calls for protection, especially in countries like Azerbaijan, ahead of COP 29.
On October 29, 2024, heightened concern over the alarming trend of violence against environmental defenders was highlighted, revealing that 193 activists lost their lives in 2023 alone. The threat comes not only from authoritarian regimes but also from nations that pride themselves on democratic values, often failing to protect these defenders from corporate interests that jeopardize environmental integrity. Activists oppose the unchecked exploitation of natural resources, often placing themselves in the line of fire against both governmental and corporate reprisals. Eléonore Morel, Director General of FIDH, emphasizes that protecting those fighting for the environment is vital as it intersects with fundamental human rights, stating, “The right to a healthy environment is a human right. Protecting those who are committed to the environmental cause and are persecuted for it is at the heart of our organisations’ mission.” Highlighting the plight of environmental advocates in Azerbaijan, Gerald Staberock of OMCT urges the government to protect these individuals, asserting, “Azerbaijan must ensure a space of freedom and security for environmental defenders, beginning with immediately releasing all defenders currently in detention. We must ensure that the voices of these activists are heard.” The Azerbaijani government has a track record of suppressing civil liberties, imprisoning activists, and pursuing aggressive land policies against Armenian communities, further endangering environmental well-being. With fossil fuels accounting for a staggering 90% of Azerbaijan’s exports, the country’s economic reliance complicates matters. As COP 29 approaches, human rights organizations call on Azerbaijan to ensure the safety of activists attending the conference, promoting their right to participate in global discussions on climate change. The UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders stipulates the importance of safeguarding those voicing concerns about environmental issues. It mandates states to create secure conditions for these defenders to operate without facing violence or intimidation, affirming that environmental defenders attending COPs should engage freely without fear of backlash. Signatories include prominent figures such as Mary Lawlor and Michel Forst, further underscoring the urgent need for action and protection of those striving for ecological justice at a time when every voice matters against a backdrop of growing environmental crises.
The article discusses the significant threats faced by environmental defenders worldwide, highlighting a drastic increase in violence against these individuals who risk their lives to protect the planet. It underscores the pressing need for acknowledgment and protection, particularly within contexts like Azerbaijan, where the government has a history of silencing dissent and harming the environment. The backdrop of the upcoming COP 29 conference intensifies calls for action to safeguard activists and recognize their vital role in advocating for a sustainable future.
In conclusion, the plight of environmental defenders demands urgent attention as they confront adversity from both authoritarian and ostensibly democratic governments alike. The call to protect these individuals, particularly within oppressive environments such as Azerbaijan, is crucial. As global discussions on climate change converge at COP 29, ensuring their safety and participation is not only a matter of human rights but also essential for the ecological future we seek.
Original Source: www.fidh.org
