Study Exposes Risks Facing Young Environmental Defenders in Uganda
Young environmental defenders in Uganda face widespread threats, harassment and inadequate protection, according to a study conducted by Fridays for Future Uganda (FFU) in partnership with Habitat Defenders Africa (HDA).
The findings were presented on 21 October 2026 at Kolping Hotel in Makerere-Kavule, Kampala, by Derrick Sebaka, founder and coordinator of Habitat Defenders Africa.
The study examined the security challenges, vulnerabilities and protection needs of young environmental defenders across central, northern and western Uganda. It found that more than half of those surveyed had experienced at least one threat linked to their environmental advocacy.
Women and marginalised groups face greater risks
The research found that 44% of women surveyed reported gender-based violence or harassment, compared with 6% of men. More than 80% of indigenous environmental defenders surveyed reported surveillance or monitoring, while 38% of respondents with disabilities said they lacked access to protection mechanisms.
The study also documented verbal abuse, online harassment, intimidation, forced eviction, surveillance, legal harassment and physical violence. It highlighted concerns about arrests, restrictions on peaceful assembly and the difficulties defenders face when seeking justice.
Among respondents who reported incidents to authorities, 59% said no action was taken, 17% did not know the outcome, and 25% said action had been taken.
Recommendations for stronger protection
The report calls for a national protection framework for young environmental defenders, effective investigations into reported violations, stronger accountability and dedicated support mechanisms within human rights institutions.
It also recommends improved digital security, legal awareness, psychosocial support, peer-support networks and flexible, long-term funding for defender protection programmes.
Fridays for Future Uganda Executive Director Hilda Flavia Nakabuye emphasised the importance of sharing the findings with government agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen the protection of environmental defenders.
The study calls for a shift from fragmented, crisis-driven responses towards preventive protection, coordinated support and improved access to justice.
About the study: The research was conducted by Fridays for Future Uganda in partnership with Habitat Defenders Africa. Its findings are indicative and should be interpreted in light of the study`s limited sample size.
Read the full report
Photo: Rest Mubiiwa Ndholorwa (L) of Fridays for Future Uganda and Derrick Sebaka (R) of Habitat Defenders Africa display the new research report on young environmental defenders in Uganda. Source: New Vision.
| Themes |
| • Advocacy • Environment (Sustainable) • National • Public policies • Research • Women • Youth |
