The devastation of coronavirus meant 2020 was particularly tough for these brave people. Under lockdown, many were exposed to increased threats, violence and intimidation as aggressors exploited lockdown situations for their own gain.
More than 300 human rights defenders were killed in 2019 while fighting to protect their lands and nature, to halt the climate crisis or stand up for peace and human rights. Hundreds more were threatened or criminalised.
During Advent 2020, hundreds of CAFOD supporters sent messages of solidarity to the brave people whose stories are below, letting them know they aren’t alone in their struggles and that they have a community of people in the UK praying and standing with them.