Thousands of climate protesters have gathered outside the COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, making their demands heard as negotiations unfold. The demonstrators, led by a diverse coalition of indigenous groups and youth activists, marched to the rhythm of loud music, chanting slogans such as “free the Amazon.” They carried three oversized coffins labeled Oil, Coal, and Gas, accompanied by figures dressed as grim reapers, symbolizing the environmental toll of fossil fuels.
This event marks the first time since 2021 that protesters have been permitted to demonstrate outside the UN climate talks. Previous summits occurred in countries with restrictions on public protests, limiting expressions of dissent.
Voices from the Frontlines
Brianna Fruean, a climate activist from Samoa, emphasized the urgency of the situation. “Fossil fuels are still being burned. We know all too well what it’s like to live on the frontline of climate change,” she stated in an interview with the BBC. Another activist, Ilan from the non-governmental organization 350, echoed her sentiments, saying, “We are here after so many COPS, marching for justice, for the end of fossil fuels.”
The march drew attention not only to fossil fuel consumption but also to indigenous rights. Many participants carried signs demanding “demarcation now,” advocating for legal ownership of their territories. Experts recognize indigenous communities as vital protectors of biodiversity and forests, particularly in the Amazon, where hundreds of groups reside.
Global Solidarity and Local Tensions
Smaller protests have emerged worldwide, including in the UK, demonstrating a broadening movement for climate justice. Tensions escalated earlier in the week when protesters breached security lines at the summit, resulting in minor injuries to two security personnel and some damage to the venue.
As negotiations continue in Belém, nearly 200 countries are working toward actionable solutions for climate change. Progress has been sluggish during the initial week of talks, with some delegations pushing for a unified strategy to fulfill previous commitments to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Brazilian President Luis Ignacio Lula da Silva is hosting the summit, strategically choosing Belém to draw attention to the Amazon and the rights of indigenous peoples. Yet, controversy surrounds the talks as his government recently authorized the Brazilian state oil company to explore for oil at the mouth of the Amazon, raising questions about the country’s commitment to environmental protection.
As the summit progresses, the voices of protesters continue to resonate, reminding negotiators of the urgent need for action in the face of escalating climate challenges.
