It has never been a deadlier time to defend one’s community, way of life or environment, especially in Latin America.

Global Witness’ latest annual data into violence against land and environmental defenders shows a rise in the number of women and men killed last year to 207 — the highest recorded total to date.

Research shows that agribusiness — including coffee, palm oil and banana plantations — is the industry most associated with these deaths.

Of the 207 murdered last year, the vast majority hailed from Latin America, which remains the most dangerous region for defenders, accounting for 60% of those killed in 2017.