Protect the unsung heroes of climate action: Environmental defenders

Today on Oct. 24 we celebrate the International Day for Climate Action. On this day, we join hands globally to emphasize the need for urgent solutions to the climate crisis. The Philippines, as a very vulnerable archipelago and the most natural disaster-prone country in the world, understands this need fully. The Philippines has taken a more visible role in climate action in international and regional platforms, a testament to its resiliency.

As members of the international community, we congratulate the Philippines for the successful hosting of the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) last week, a theme closely linked to climate change as it calls for cooperation in mitigating disaster risks among neighbors.

Additionally, we look forward as the Philippines assumes the role as host of the UN Loss and Damage Fund Board, which has as its aim to help vulnerable communities in countries exposed to climate change effects.

Yet, as we advocate for the protection of our planet, it is equally crucial to shine a light on the continuing threats faced by those who defend the environment. The role of these unsung heroes is indispensable for a holistic, effective, collective climate action. As an international community, we thank and recognize their efforts.

A 2024 report by international NGO Global Witness revealed, however, that the Philippines continues to be the most dangerous country in Asia for environmental defenders – for the 11th year in a row. In 2023, 10 environmental defenders were killed and seven disappeared in the Philippines, often leaving little to no trace. As members of the diplomatic community in the Philippines, we are deeply concerned by the violence against those courageous and committed people protecting the environment and their communities.

In this light, we applaud the Philippine government’s intention to sign the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, as was recommended in the 4th Universal Periodic Review. This step represents a significant commitment to addressing the ongoing issue of enforced disappearances. By aligning itself with international obligations, the Philippines not only strengthens its legal protections but also demonstrates its dedication to global human rights norms and justice. We encourage the signing and ratification of this Convention, which will complement its domestic legislation against enforced disappearances in Republic Act 10353. We stand ready for further dialogue with the government to strengthen the protection of human rights defenders, including those working on environmental issues. And hope the trend of increasing enforced disappearances which runs counter to efforts to make the Philippines a lighthouse in the fight against climate change can be reverted.

Let this International Day of Climate Action remind us that the fight for a sustainable future must include safeguarding those who stand at the forefront of environmental protection. Our thoughts today are with the families and communities of the victims, who bear the burden of these tragic disappearances and are still hoping to see their family members back alive. Let us all commit to intensify our efforts to offer safety to both the defenders, and the environment they fight to protect.

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Statement signed by the Heads of Missions of the Netherlands, Germany, EU Delegation, France, Italy, Belgium, Austria, Ireland, Denmark, Greece, Finland, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Romania, Czech Republic, Norway, Switzerland and Lithuania.