An environmental activist in northern Honduras, Juan Lopez, was tragically shot dead on Saturday night by several men as he was returning home from church. Lopez was a member of the Municipal Committee for the Defense of Common and Public Goods, an environmental organization in Tocoa, dedicated to preserving tropical forests and rivers in the region.
This incident is not isolated, as three other members of the group were killed last year in what is believed to be retaliation for their activism. Honduras is known to be one of the most dangerous countries for activists, with ongoing threats and harassment faced by those working to protect natural resources.
The group, particularly focused on preserving the Guapinol and San Pedro rivers and the Carlos Escaleras nature reserve, has been at odds with mining and hydro-electric companies operating in the area. Lopez had reported numerous threats, including from a gang member, a local businessperson, and a mining company representative.
Following the tragic event, the group took to social media to demand answers from the government and seek justice for Lopez's killing. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights had previously granted precautionary measures for Lopez and other members of the organization, urging the Honduran government to enhance protection mechanisms.
The United Nations resident coordinator in Honduras, Alice Shackelford, condemned the murder of Lopez and highlighted his bravery in standing up to powerful interests. She emphasized the importance of protecting human rights defenders who are at risk due to their activism.
Last year, Latin America accounted for the majority of environmentalists killed worldwide, with Honduras alone registering 18 deaths. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those advocating for environmental conservation and sustainable development in the region.
