Protests Turn Physical at UN Climate Conference
A dramatic confrontation unfolded late Tuesday night at the Cop30 climate talks in Belém, Brazil, when a mixed group of indigenous and non-indigenous protesters stormed the conference centre, leading to physical clashes with United Nations security personnel.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing several dozen men and women, some adorned in brightly coloured feather headdresses, forcefully entering the venue. The group pushed through the entrance, with at least one door being forced off its hinges, before striding past metal detectors into the secure Blue Zone area of the conference.
Security Scramble and Confrontation
UN security guards rushed to intercept the intruders, resulting in grabbing, shoving and raised voices. The atmosphere grew tense as protesters waved banners and chanted slogans. At least one non-indigenous man was seen carrying a banner that read "Our forests are not for sale", while others wore T-shirts bearing the word "Juntos" (Together).
According to local media reports, one security guard sustained injuries during the altercation, though the severity remains unclear. The protesters were eventually forcibly removed from the building.
Following the incident, uniformed fire brigade officers formed a human cordon to block the entrance, restoring order to the venue. The identity of those responsible for organising the intrusion remains unknown.
A Different Approach to Civil Society
This incident marks the first major disruption at a conference that has notably encouraged participation from non-governmental organisations and Indigenous groups. Unlike recent Cop summits held in countries with more authoritarian leanings, the Brazilian hosts have actively promoted civil society involvement and street demonstrations.
Juan Carlos Monterrey-Gómez, a Panamanian climate negotiator, offered a surprising perspective on the event, stating: "At last, something has happened here."
Indigenous groups and NGOs have maintained a significant presence both inside and outside the conference venue, providing a counterbalance to the corporate lobbyists who have dominated recent climate gatherings. Activist events have been growing in number, with up to four peaceful demonstrations occurring daily prior to this incident.
Further demonstrations are scheduled, including:
- A "people's summit" on Thursday and Friday
- A global youth rally on Friday
- The largest demonstration planned for Saturday
In a highly anticipated event, activists are expected to arrive via a flotilla of approximately 100 vessels led by two of the Amazon's most respected Indigenous leaders: Raoni Metuktire and Davi Kopenawa Yanomami.
