The most dangerous and deadly sector of human rights defence involves land, environmental and indigenous rights, according to a report by Front Line Defenders.
One of those killed, according to the organisation, was Leah Tumbalang who was shot dead in the Philippines in August after campaigning against mining activities beginning in the province of Bukidnon. Last year saw mounting pressure on activists defending LGBTI rights as well as women's rights and migrants' rights.
The report also notes some positive developments including the male guardianship system being revoked in Saudi Arabia, women from the Sulaliyat tribe in Morocco being able to inherit and own land, and Sudan removing a law where women could be arrested if found dancing, wearing trousers or mixing with men who were not their relatives.