The recent killing of environmental activist Juan López in rural Honduras has sparked condemnation from global leaders and the U.S. State Department. López, who fought against mining projects to protect the region’s rivers and forests, was gunned down in Colón. President Xiomara Castro labeled his death a “vile murder” and vowed to investigate. López’s organization, RedContraVA, previously lost three activists in similar circumstances. Before his death, López had reported multiple death threats and had been under protection from authorities and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.
Assistant U.S. Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Brian A. Nichols, joined Honduran leaders in urging justice for López. The United Nations called for a transparent investigation to identify those responsible for the murder. Latin America is considered the most dangerous region for environmental defenders, with countries like Colombia, Brazil, Honduras, and Mexico being among the most deadly for such activists. The NGO Global Witness reported at least 140 environmentalists were killed across these nations last year, with Honduras alone accounting for 18 of the fatalities.
Honduras has a long history of violence against environmental activists, with the unresolved killing of Indigenous leader Berta Cáceres in 2016 being a prominent case. Environmental defenders often face risks as they challenge powerful industries in remote areas with limited legal protection. The U.N. recognized López as someone who dedicated his life to safeguarding natural resources. The ongoing violence highlights the dangers faced by those advocating for the environment in Latin America and the urgent need for justice and protection for environmental leaders.
