Protesters breached security at the COP30 climate talks in Belém, Brazil, demanding action on environmental issues. The incident highlights tensions surrounding climate policies and indigenous rights.

At a glance

Security Breach at COP30

On Tuesday night, protesters disrupted the COP30 climate talks in Belém, Brazil, by breaking through security lines. Carrying signs that read "our forests are not for sale," they clashed with security personnel. United Nations security staff were seen urging delegates to evacuate the venue as the situation escalated. Reports indicate that two security staff sustained minor injuries during the incident. Videos shared on social media depicted protesters, some dressed in traditional indigenous attire, storming the entrance and chanting slogans. They managed to cross initial security barriers but were halted before reaching the main conference area. A security guard reported being struck by a drum thrown by a protester, illustrating the chaotic nature of the breach.

Investigation Underway

Brazilian and UN authorities are currently investigating the incident, which is considered highly unusual given the strict security protocols at such conferences. The COP30 talks, running from November 10 to November 21, gather delegates from almost 200 countries to discuss global climate action. This year's conference is particularly significant as it marks a decade since the Paris climate agreement was established. The choice of Belém as the conference location has sparked controversy, especially among local residents who criticize ongoing environmental degradation in the Amazon. Brazil's continued licensing of oil and gas exploration has raised concerns about its commitment to addressing climate change.

Indigenous Voices at COP30

The COP30 meetings have been dubbed "the Indigenous peoples COP," with a focus on elevating indigenous voices in climate discussions. Brazilian Minister of Indigenous Peoples Sonia Guajajara described the event as historic, with an estimated 3,000 indigenous representatives expected to attend. A UN report noted that indigenous communities protect 80% of the planet's remaining biodiversity but receive less than one percent of international climate funding. Indigenous leaders have expressed frustration over the impact of development in the Amazon. One leader from the Tupinamba community stated, "we can't eat money," emphasizing the need for protection against agribusiness, oil exploration, and illegal activities in their territories.

Climate Denialism and the Amazon

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva opened the summit by calling for a united front against climate denialism and misinformation. He highlighted the importance of the Amazon in the global climate narrative, asserting that COP30 would be "the COP of truth." The president noted that the Amazon is home to nearly 50 million people, including 400 indigenous groups, and is vital for addressing climate change. The discussions at COP30 aim to bring attention to the critical role of indigenous peoples in environmental stewardship and the urgent need for action against climate change. As the conference unfolds, the clash between protesters and security underscores the deep-rooted tensions surrounding climate policies and indigenous rights.