Effective forest conservation requires a safe operational space for (women) environmental defenders and civil society organisations (CSOs). However, partners and communities in IUCN NL’s Forests for a Just Future programme face substantial challenges in their civic freedoms, as was revealed by a 2023 survey. In order to address urgent cases of repression, intimidation or safety and security concerns, IUCN NL has set money aside for a so-called emergency fund. Over the past four years, we have provided emergency funds to 33 organisations  and individuals for legal support and safety and security measures to environmental defenders and for urgent natural disaster relief.