In Latin America, women human rights defenders play a crucial role in promoting and protecting fundamental rights. However, they face challenges compounded by the rise of authoritarianism, the shrinking of civic space, and widespread violence, particularly in conflict zones. The story of María Eugenia Gabriel Ruiz, a lawyer and Indigenous leader from Michoacán, Mexico, exemplifies these struggles and the strategies employed to overcome them.
In Mexico, women defenders face a dual threat: they are targeted not only for their public advocacy but also because of the gender-based discrimination and violence they endure in a patriarchal society. María, who defends the rights of Indigenous communities affected by the socio-environmental impacts of illegal avocado monoculture, highlights its devastating socioeconomic consequences. The exploitation of her community’s land jeopardizes Indigenous rights and security, while organized crime exacerbates the situation. Her work becomes particularly dangerous as cartels illegally seize Indigenous lands, often with state complicity, and wage gang wars to control them.
Fighting the shrinking civic space
Latin America is the deadliest region in the world for land and environmental defenders, accounting for 85% of such killings in 2023. In this hostile environment, organizations like Peace Brigades International (PBI) play a critical role, supporting defenders on multiple fronts: physical protection, capacity building, and international advocacy. María, for instance, benefits from comprehensive accompaniment, allowing her to continue working in high-risk areas despite constant threats.
In September 2024, María joined ten other women human rights and environmental defenders at the Women Human Rights Advocacy Week in Geneva. Half of the participants were from Latin America. Organized by leading organizations, including the International Service for Human Rights (ISHR), Just Associates (JASS), Forum Asia, Amnesty International, the Women Human Rights Defenders International Coalition (WHRD-IC), and PBI, the event provided a unique opportunity to deepen their engagement with UN human rights mechanisms.
The week also offered María and her peers the chance to meet key international stakeholders, share their experiences, and participate in targeted training on climate justice, environmental rights, and Indigenous rights.
A commitment that brings hope
The Women Human Rights Advocacy Week was an opportunity for several women advocates to exchange ideas in a female solidarity spirit. It also created an essential space for dialogue between these activists and key international players. The event helped amplify their voices, while strengthening their security and the visibility of their struggles. As María sums up: “One day, I hope this world will no longer need human rights defenders.”