BELEM: Dozens of Indigenous activists clashed with security guards on Tuesday after forcing their way into the COP30 climate summit venue in Belem, Brazil, demanding stronger action on climate change and forest protection.
The protesters, part of a larger group that marched to the venue, carried flags and signs calling for land rights, with slogans such as “Our land is not for sale.” Nato, a Tupinamba community leader, said, “We can’t eat money. We want our lands free from agribusiness, oil exploration, illegal miners, and illegal loggers.”
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Security personnel pushed back the activists, using tables to block entrances. Reuters reporters observed one guard being taken away in a wheelchair after being injured and another with a fresh cut from being hit by a heavy drumstick thrown by protesters. Several sticks were confiscated by authorities during the clash.
The protesters dispersed shortly afterward, and security measures allowed delegates to safely exit the venue. A UN spokesperson confirmed that minor injuries to two security staff and slight damage to the venue had occurred. Brazilian and UN authorities are investigating the incident.
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The UN emphasized that the venue is now fully secured and that COP30 negotiations are continuing without disruption, as delegates from around the world work on global climate agreements in the Amazon city.