Environmental Lawyers Campaign
ENVIRONMENTAL LAWYERS ARE AT RISK
— AND SO IS ACCESS TO CLIMATE JUSTICE.
Protecting those who defend the planet
Environmental lawyers play a vital role in advancing climate justice and safeguarding the rule of law, especially for marginalised communities most affected by environmental harm. Their work extends far beyond the courtroom — they empower communities, expose environmental violations, and hold powerful actors to account.
Yet, these lawyers face mounting threats. Under-resourced and often working in isolation, many operate in remote or dangerous areas. In several countries, entire regions rely on the efforts of just a handful of practitioners. This shortage is not accidental: their job comes with increased risk, as lawyers face physical attacks, harassment, and intimidation from both state and non-state actors.
In response to this trend, Lawyers for Lawyers started the ‘Environmental Lawyers Campaign” to support colleagues at risk working in the field of climate justice. We raise awareness about their crucial work, advocate for their protection, and call for greater support so they can continue defending both people and planet.
REPORT CONCLUSION
Environmental lawyers are essential to securing climate justice and defending the rights of communities facing environmental harm. Yet, they face growing threats worldwide—ranging from physical attacks and legal harassment to stigmatisation and surveillance.
Based on 25 interviews across five continents, this report documents a global pattern of intimidation aimed at silencing environmental legal advocacy. Without urgent action to protect these lawyers, both their clients’ right to access justice and the environment itself are at serious risk.
Spotlight: stories of environmental lawyers worldwide
Marco Emanuel Chung Ramos
News & publications
Environmental Lawyers at Risk
Why this campaign?
Environmental lawyers play a crucial role in protecting the planet, advocating for policies, and representing communities affected by environmental degradation. However, in recent years the attacks against environmental lawyers have increased significantly. These attacks include acts of intimidation, assault, enforced disappearance, unlawful detention, violations of private and family life, and in the worst cases, even the killing of lawyers. In order to provide public recognition and support to environmental lawyers at risk, Lawyers for Lawyers launched the ‘Environmental Lawyers Campaign’ in May 2022.
Objectives
Bring global attention to the threats faced by environmental lawyers who are being intimidated, harassed, or put at risk because of their vital work on environmental cases.
Offer practical support to environmental lawyers through actions such as issuing public statements and creating networking and knowledge sharing opportunities.
Send a clear message to national governments that the international community is closely monitoring the situation, encouraging a reduction in acts of harassment, intimidation, and violence against environmental lawyers.
Foster international solidarity by sharing success stories of environmental lawyers. By showcasing these examples, the campaign aims to inspire and motivate other environmental lawyers, providing them with valuable insights and encouragement.
