Speaking at the first European Forum on Environmental Human Rights Defenders, which took place on Wednesday and Thursday in Strasbourg, France, Türk highlighted growing risks faced by activists globally. Türk said nearly 600 environmental and land defenders have been killed or have disappeared over the past three years, while activists in at least 55 countries have faced detention linked to their work.
Türk said defenders play a critical role in protecting not only the environment but also human rights and democracy. Türk described the environmental justice movement as a powerful alliance spanning science, law and ethics, but warned that its growing influence has been met with increasingly harsh responses. According to Türk, some opponents have resorted to violence, abduction and the misuse of legal systems to silence activists.
The warning comes as environmental pressures continue to intensify, particularly in Europe. Türk said the continent is warming at twice the global average, with extreme weather events contributing to thousands of deaths each summer. Türk also pointed to widespread environmental challenges, including unsafe air quality affecting the majority of urban residents and the degradation of most natural habitats.
Türk said there is a contradiction between environmental ambitions and the treatment of activists, noting that some countries have introduced laws that can criminalise peaceful protest. Türk said it is concerning that individuals advocating for environmental protection are being prosecuted under legislation designed to combat serious crimes such as terrorism or organised crime.
Türk called on governments to ensure the safety of environmental defenders, hold perpetrators accountable for abuses and strengthen legal protections. Türk also urged authorities to respect court rulings and work towards establishing more robust protection systems at regional levels.
The remarks came ahead of World Environment Day, which is observed annually on June 5 under the leadership of the UN Environment Programme. The global campaign this year is focusing on the urgent need to limit global warming and reduce emissions in line with international climate targets.
UN Environment Programme Executive (UNEP) Director Inger Andersen said decisive action is needed to keep temperature increases within the 1.5°C threshold above pre-industrial levels. Andersen said even if this target is exceeded, efforts must continue to bring temperatures back down through sustained climate action.
To support the campaign, UNEP has launched a global awareness initiative encouraging participation through a “get low for climate” challenge. The campaign, which includes support from public figures such as Actor Jason Momoa, aims to amplify engagement and reinforce calls for stronger environmental action.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
