Environmental Defenders: Deadly Struggles for Life and Territory

This book explores the violence faced by environmental defenders around the world, highlighting the diverse threats they face and the need for support and protection. Drawing on global case studies, it examines the violence surrounding development projects such as fossil fuels, agro-industrial, renewable energy, and infrastructure, as well as conservation projects. It concludes with a reflection on the perspectives of defenders and the challenges faced by an international community often prioritizing economic growth over the lives of defenders.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 298 pages
\n Publication date: 16 July 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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Environmental defenders are individuals who tirelessly work to safeguard their land and the environment from harm. Unfortunately, their noble cause has often led to violence and persecution. Between 2002 and 2019, at least two thousand people were killed in 57 countries for defending their lands and the environment. While recent policy initiatives and media coverage have brought attention to the protection and support of defenders, there has been limited scholarly work on this critical issue.

This edited volume aims to fill that gap by providing a comprehensive understanding of who these defenders are, the threats they face, and the measures that can be taken to support and protect them. The book delves deep into the complex relations between and within communities, corporations, and government authorities, highlighting the diversity of defenders, the collective character of their struggles, and the various drivers and forms of violence they encounter.

The volume examines the violence surrounding different types of development projects, including fossil fuels, agro-industrial, renewable energy, and infrastructure. It also explores the violence surrounding conservation projects, such as through militarized wildlife protection and surveillance technologies.

One of the key findings of the book is that the violence experienced by environmental defenders is not isolated incidents but rather part of a broader pattern of repression and marginalization. Defenders are often subjected to intimidation, surveillance, and physical violence by corporations, government authorities, and even their own communities.

The book concludes with a reflection on the perspectives of defenders about the best ways to support and protect them. It contrasts these with the lagging efforts of an international community that often prioritizes economic growth over the lives and well-being of defenders.

This volume is essential reading for all those interested in understanding the challenges faced by environmental defenders and how to help and support them. It will appeal to students, scholars, and practitioners involved in environmental protection, environmental activism, and human rights.

In conclusion, environmental defenders are heroes who risk their lives to protect our planet and its resources. Their work is crucial for the survival of our species and the future of our planet. However, their noble cause has often led to violence and persecution. It is essential that we recognize the importance of their work and take steps to support and protect them. This edited volume provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the challenges faced by environmental defenders and the measures that can be taken to support and protect them.

\n Weight: 456g\n
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780367649647\n \n