Greens/EFA nominee Aura Lolita Chávez on shortlist

The European Parliament’s foreign affairs and development committees have today agreed on the shortlist for the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought for 2017. The three shortlisted candidates are: the Democratic Opposition in Venezuela, the Eritrean journalist Davit Isaak and Aura Lolita Chávez Ixcaquic, a Guatemalan environmental and human rights defender from the Maya Quiché people. Aura Lolita Chávez was nominated by the Greens/EFA group.

Commenting on the shortlist, Greens/EFA MEP and Vice-Chair of the Human Rights committee Barbara Lochbihler said:

"We are delighted that Aura Lolita Chávez’s outstanding and fearless work has been recognised by the European Parliament. She has been a powerful voice for the protection of women and indigenous rights against the threats posed by corporate interests. At a time when a horrifying number of environmental rights campaigners across the world have found themselves intimidated and even killed, this nomination sends an important message of support and solidarity."

Background

You can learn more about the work of Aura Lolita Chávez on our website: https://www.greens-efa.eu/en/article/news/challenges-faced-by-environmental-rights-defenders-in-the-world/