Fracking opponent fights to reclaim her life after years of threats

At 23, Colombian environmental activist Yuvelis Natalia Morales Blanco, a leading voice against fracking, continues her battle for mental health after enduring years of harassment and death threats.

María Paula Rubiano A. reports for Grist.

In short:

Morales Blanco received her first death threat at 19 for opposing fracking in her hometown, Puerto Wilches.
Colombia's stalled fracking projects could resume, increasing risks for activists like Morales Blanco.
Despite escaping to France under protection, she returned to Colombia, determined to continue her advocacy.

Key quote:

"I decided that the militant half and the other half should be one."

— Yuvelis Natalia Morales Blanco, activist.

Why this matters:

Environmental defenders in Colombia face severe risks, with many, like Morales Blanco, enduring psychological trauma. As fossil fuel projects continue, activists fighting for the environment must also contend with personal safety and mental health struggles.

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