In Colombia, 548 people have been killed over the past several years while defending their land, forests, or rivers from extractive industries—such as mining and oil drilling. These individuals, often indigenous communities, farmers, or environmental activists, are targeted for opposing projects that threaten their way of life or local ecosystems. Colombia accounts for nearly a quarter of all such murders globally, making it one of the most dangerous countries for environmental and land defenders. These killings are often linked to conflicts over natural resources, where powerful economic interests clash with local communities seeking to protect their territories. The situation is part of a larger global trend where environmental activists face significant risks, especially in regions with weak governance or high levels of corruption. In Colombia, the violence is sometimes tied to armed groups, including remnants of the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), which have shifted from political conflict to involvement in illegal activities like drug trafficking and resource extraction. Efforts to address these murders have been ongoing, with international organizations and human rights groups calling for stronger protections for activists. However, the challenge remains significant, as the root causes—such as land disputes and corporate interests—continue to drive the violence.