A heated clash between protesters and security guards erupted at the Cop30 climate talks in Brazil on Tuesday night, as a group of Indigenous and non-Indigenous activists stormed the conference center in Belém. The protesters, some adorned in vibrant feather headdresses, burst through the entrance, causing one door to swing off its hinges, and proceeded past the metal detectors into the Blue Zone.
The UN security guards swiftly responded, resulting in a chaotic scene of grabbing, shoving, and yelling. Among the protesters, a non-Indigenous man carried a banner that read, 'Our forests are not for sale,' while others wore T-shirts with the words 'Juntos' (Together). They waved banners and chanted until they were forcibly removed.
The UN climate spokesperson confirmed that two security guards sustained minor injuries, and there was some minor damage to the venue. After the confrontation, the protesters exited the premises, and uniformed fire brigade officers secured the entrance.
The motive behind the intrusion remains unclear. However, Juan Carlos Monterrey-Gómez, a Panamanian climate negotiator, expressed his admiration for the protesters' bold action, stating, 'At last, something has happened here.'
Agustin Ocaña, from the Global Youth Coalition, shed light on the protesters' chants, 'They cannot decide for us without us,' which reflected the ongoing tensions regarding the participation of Indigenous people in the conference.
During the clash, Ocaña witnessed protesters and security guards engaging in a physical struggle, using small plastic bins typically found near secure entrances. One guard was observed bleeding from a head injury inflicted by a protester.
Ocaña highlighted the frustration of certain Indigenous communities, who felt that resources were being poured into building a new city in Belém, while education, health, and forest protection were neglected in other areas. He emphasized, 'They are not bad people; they are desperate, striving to safeguard their land and the Amazon river.'
The UN spokesperson assured that Brazilian and UN security personnel had taken protective measures, adhering to established security protocols, and were investigating the incident. They confirmed that the venue was fully secured, and the Cop negotiations continued.
In contrast to the previous three Cop conferences held in countries with varying degrees of authoritarian rule, the Brazilian hosts have actively invited civil society and street demonstrations to participate in this conference. Indigenous groups and NGOs have already made their presence felt inside and outside the venue, counterbalancing the influence of lobbyists who have dominated recent climate gatherings.
A 'people's summit' is scheduled for Thursday and Friday, followed by a global youth rally on Friday, with the largest demonstration planned for Saturday. Activists have been increasing in number over the past week, organizing up to four events daily, all of which have been peaceful until this incident. On Tuesday, protests were held by a feminist collective, pro-Palestine supporters, and a health and environment group.
The arrival of many more activists is anticipated tomorrow, with an estimated 100 vessels forming a flotilla. Leading this group are two renowned Indigenous leaders of the Amazon rainforest, Raoni Metuktire and Davi Kopenawa Yanomami.
