Critics in Colombia vocalize their opposition towards

In a historic hearing before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) on July 22, Colombian environmental activist Francisco Vera, the leader of the 'Guardians for Life' movement, called for increased protection mechanisms for children and environmental defenders.

Vera, who has been in exile for four years without significant progress by the Prosecutor's Office and justice organs, represented the organization "Movimiento Causa Verde" at the event. He highlighted the systematic harassment, persecution, and defamation of environmental defenders in Colombia as a common 'modus operandi'.

Violence against environmental defenders in Colombia goes beyond murder, as Vera emphasized. Between 2016 and 2024, 248 people defending human rights were killed in Colombia alone. Last week, Vera received four threats from publicly recognized individuals without any consequences.

The hearing was a significant moment as it brought a different perspective from children. Four children presented current issues such as armed recruitment in Colombia affecting environmental defense, the perspective of indigenous children, and disappearances of activists in Chile.

Colombia has been ranked the most dangerous country in the world for defending land and the environment for two consecutive years, according to studies by Global Witness. Environmental activism in Colombia has been crucial in raising awareness about the country's environmental challenges.

The 'Guardians for Life' movement promotes responsible conservation habits, effective environmental policies, and gives voice to local communities. Hanna de Ávila from the 'Guardians for Life' movement, Oscar Mauricio Capaz Pardo, Joaquín Salinas, and Francisco Vera participated in the hearing.

Sebastián Hernán, the head of human rights at the youth organization Life of Pachamama, emphasized that the implementation of any agreements should go hand in hand with civil society. Global Witness conducted a survey among environmental defenders in which 72% of participants reported receiving harassment and threats through social media.

IACHR Commissioner José Luis Caballero found the hearing historic and relevant, noting its contribution to a different perspective from children. Vera also requested a public hearing before the IACHR to continue fighting for climate action, children's rights, climate justice, and human rights.