ARE

A global network of civil society actors that drives multi-stakeholder action and systemic change in the recognition, support, and protection of Indigenous, Land, and Environmental Defenders (ILEDs).

As a network, ALLIED is rooted in the recognition and importance of collective power as the main way to address violence against ILEDs. Power imbalances, corruption and discriminatory practices are at the heart of attacks against ILEDs. Networks that bring together community leaders, activists, lawyers, and funders in a trusted and secure way can help to counter these power imbalances.

WHAT WE STAND FOR

At ALLIED, we firmly believe that biodiversity protection and climate action can only be achieved if ILEDs are protected, respected, and supported to do their critical work. Environmental rights are human rights, and those rights are already being advanced through the work of ILEDs. Environmental defenders play a crucial role in environmental protection, including the conservation of biodiversity, and climate action by safeguarding ecosystems and defending communities’ rights. By protecting forests, wetlands, and other critical habitats, ILEDs help to mitigate climate change impacts, pollution and environmental degradation. Their efforts are directly linked to achieving environmental protection and climate goals, as they maintain the health and integrity of natural systems and support resilient communities.

Our efforts focus on countering threats and obstacles that could prevent ILEDs, including Indigenous peoples, from safeguarding and preserving their territories and environment, while proactively advocating for stronger norms and policies that recognize and protect their rights and work.

OUR VISION

Jointly with defenders and guided by their knowledge, ALLIED is building a global movement that connects grassroots and local ILEDs and supporters with their peers working at the national, regional, and global levels. Our work breaks down silos and facilitates understanding and dialogue between ILEDs, organizations, and donors working on environmental, human rights, climate, anti-corruption, development, and security issues, leading to more effective support for ILEDs.

Our vision recognizes that the intersection of environmental defense, on one hand, and environmental protection, the conservation of biodiversity, and climate action on the other, is a fundamental aspect of our global strategy. By amplifying the voices of defenders, we not only support their human rights but also enhance the effectiveness of environmental protection strategies. ILEDs often serve as the first line of defense against environmental degradation and climate impacts, making their protection essential for the successful implementation of global environmental and climate agreements and sustainability goals.

OUR MISSION

ALLIED works to ensure that ILEDs can continue their critical work protecting their rights, the environment, and the climate for future generations, free from violence and retaliation, and with the support and respect of governments, civil society, and the private sector.

WHAT MAKES ALLIED STAND OUT?

OUR STRENGTH LIES IN OUR ALLIES

Our network of organizations and defenders allows us to:

Inform support strategies, making them context-appropriate, flexible, and demand-driven.

Ultimately, this contributes to creating a safe and enabling space for ILEDs, through:

• Stronger protection and prevention strategies.

• Heightened awareness and understanding of the situation and support needs of defenders.

• Amplification of the voices of defenders, empowering them to speak truth to power.

• Enhanced recognition and respect for the invaluable work of defenders.