Belem: A group of Indigenous protesters forced their way into the COP30 climate summit venue in Belém, Brazil, on Tuesday, leading to tense clashes with security personnel. The demonstrators were calling for stronger protection of the Amazon rainforest and greater inclusion of Indigenous voices in global climate negotiations.
Witnesses said the protest began peacefully but turned chaotic when some protesters pushed past security barriers at the main entrance. Many carried banners with messages such as “Our land is not for sale” and shouted slogans against illegal mining, deforestation, and oil exploration in Indigenous territories.
Security officers tried to block the crowd by forming barricades with tables. During the confrontation, at least two guards were injured, one of whom was seen being taken away in a wheelchair. The United Nations, which oversees the summit venue, later confirmed that there were minor injuries and limited damage to the site. Both UN and Brazilian authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
The protesters said their actions were meant to draw attention to what they described as the exclusion of Indigenous communities from key decision-making at the climate talks. “We are the guardians of the forest, but our voices are not being heard,” said one protester from the Amazon region.
The incident has brought new attention to the growing frustration among Indigenous and environmental groups who argue that world leaders are not doing enough to protect forests and support local communities. Many say that hosting the conference in the Amazon region must come with a real commitment to listen to those who live there.
Despite the disruption, negotiations at COP30 have continued, with delegates focusing on measures to curb global emissions and support sustainable forest management. The clash, however, has reminded the world that the fight against climate change is not just about policies and pledges but also about justice, inclusion, and respect for those who protect the planet’s most vital ecosystems.