Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) is deeply concerned with the reports that UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Vicky Tauli-Corpuz, along with other human rights defenders, has been accused of being a terrorist by the Philippine government. This appears to be a blatant attempt to silence and criminalize Vicky Tauli-Corpuz and others for their work to protect and defend the rights of indigenous peoples. Around the world, environmental and human rights defenders are being increasingly targeted by governments and companies seeking to silence them and undermine their important work. This retaliatory step by the government of the Philippines threatens the security and safety of these people. CIEL condemns the use of threats to silence indigenous leaders and environmental human rights defenders who work to protect and promote the human rights of the most vulnerable. CIEL stands with Vicky Tauli-Corpuz’s fellow UN Special Rapporteurs and the many organizations and people who have already condemned this action by the government.
