Santiago, Chile – Chile has experienced an unprecedented rise in violence against environmental defenders in 2024, according to a recent report by 'Escazú Ahora,' an environmental protection organization. The report reveals a total of 27 recorded incidents of rights violations, highlighting a critical failure of the Chilean authorities to protect those safeguarding the environment.

The distressing statistics, which include 14 male and 13 female victims, underscore a dangerous trend of physical violence, judicial harassment, and systemic neglect. Sebastián Benfeld, president of Escazú Ahora, attributed the surge in violence to "the increase in socio-environmental conflicts and the lack of punishment for these incidents," stating that "perpetrators continue to attack without facing any consequences."

Regionally, Valparaíso recorded the highest incidence of violence at 26.9%, followed closely by BíoBío at the same rate, and Los Lagos at 15.4%. This geographical distribution indicates that the threat to environmental defenders is widespread across the country.

Of the 27 cases, only 19 (70.4%) were formally reported to the Chilean judiciary, with the remaining 38.2% abandoning legal action. Benfeld expressed concern over the "continued impunity in the absence of clear sanctions and effective environmental oversight." This situation not only exposes environmental activists to physical danger but also subjects them to legal and psychological pressure.

Escazú Ahora emphasizes that environmental defenders play a crucial role in strengthening Chile's democracy and ensuring a sustainable future. However, the escalating attacks threaten to stifle community-based environmental protection efforts. "These violent incidents are not merely individual problems but a responsibility of the entire nation," Benfeld warned, urging the government to take proactive measures.