Tensions rise at COP30 in Brazil as protesters clash with security
The atmosphere at the COP30 climate talks in Brazil's Belém city was charged with tension as a group of Indigenous and non-Indigenous protesters stormed the conference center late Tuesday night. The protesters, some adorned in colorful feather headdresses, burst through the entrance, causing one door to swing off its hinges. They navigated past metal detectors and entered the Blue Zone, sparking a confrontation with UN security guards.
The clash involved grabbing, shoving, and yelling, with at least one non-Indigenous man carrying a banner that read, 'Our forests are not for sale.' Others wore T-shirts with the words 'Juntos' (Together) printed on them. The protesters waved banners and chanted until they were forcibly removed. Two UN security guards sustained minor injuries, and there was minor damage to the venue.
The incident was a result of tensions over the participation of Indigenous people in the conference. Some protesters were chanting, 'They cannot decide for us without us,' referring to the frustration felt by Indigenous communities regarding resource allocation. Agustin Ocaña, from the Global Youth Coalition, witnessed the clash and noted that protesters and security guards were using small plastic bins as weapons, with one guard sustaining a head injury.
Ocaña highlighted the Indigenous communities' desperation to protect their land and the Amazon River, despite the criticism they face for spending on a new city in Belém instead of education, health, and forest protection in other areas. The UN spokesperson assured that Brazilian and UN security personnel took protective actions, following established protocols, and are investigating the incident. They confirmed that the venue is fully secured, and negotiations continue.
This COP30 event stands out from previous gatherings, as the Brazilian hosts actively encourage civil society and street demonstrations to participate. Indigenous groups and NGOs have been visible inside and outside the venue, counterbalancing the influence of lobbyists. A 'people's summit' is scheduled for Thursday and Friday, followed by a global youth rally on Friday and a major demonstration on Saturday. Activists have been organizing peaceful events, with a feminist collective, pro-Palestine supporters, and a health-and-environment group protesting on Tuesday.
The arrival of a flotilla of approximately 100 vessels, led by renowned Indigenous leaders Raoni Metuktire and Davi Kopenawa Yanomami, is expected to bring even more activists to the conference.
