In 2023, Colombia was ranked as the most dangerous country for environmental activists, with 79 murders, making it the highest total recorded since Global Witness began its annual reviews in 2012. Nearly 200 environmental advocates were killed worldwide, with 85% of these killings occurring in Latin America, particularly in Colombia, Brazil, Mexico, and Honduras. The report emphasized the alarming trend of violence against environmental defenders, with many crimes going unpunished, and called for stronger government action to protect these activists. Most victims were involved in campaigns against mining, logging, and agribusiness. The Colombian government has faced criticism for its inability to curb violence, despite pledges to address the issue, particularly as the country prepares to host the COP16 biodiversity summit. Activists argue that their work is crucial to combating climate change and protecting ecosystems, highlighting a critical need for global attention on their safety.