Indigenous protesters forced their way into COP30 venue, clashing with security and demanding climate action and forest protection in Brazil.
BELEM: Dozens of Indigenous protesters forced their way into the COP30 climate summit venue on Tuesday and clashed with security guards.
Shouting protesters demanded access to the UN compound where thousands of delegates are attending this year’s climate summit in the Amazon city.
Some waved flags calling for land rights while others carried signs stating “Our land is not for sale.”
“We can’t eat money,” said Gilmar, an Indigenous leader from the Tupinamba community near the Tapajos River.
“We want our lands free from agribusiness, oil exploration, illegal miners and illegal loggers.”
Security guards pushed protesters back and used tables to barricade the entrance.
A Reuters witness saw one security guard being rushed away in a wheelchair while clutching his stomach.
Another guard with a fresh cut above his eye said he had been hit in the head by a heavy drumstick thrown from the crowd.
Security confiscated several long, heavy sticks before the protesters dispersed shortly after the clash.
The protesters had been part of a group of hundreds who marched to the venue.
Security later allowed delegates to exit after previously asking them to move back inside until the area was clear.
A spokesperson confirmed protesters breached security barriers at the main entrance to COP.
“Earlier this evening, a group of protesters breached security barriers at the main entrance to the COP, causing minor injuries to two security staff, and minor damage to the venue,” the spokesperson said.
“Brazilian and UN security personnel took protective actions to secure the venue, following all established security protocols.”
The spokesperson confirmed Brazilian and UN authorities are investigating the incident.
The venue is now fully secured and COP negotiations continue as planned.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has highlighted Indigenous communities as key players in this year’s COP30 negotiations.
Earlier this week, dozens of Indigenous leaders arrived by boat to participate in the talks.
They are demanding more say in how forests are managed across the region.
In a separate interview, prominent Indigenous leader Raoni Metuktire expressed community frustration with ongoing industry projects.
Chief Raoni urged Brazil to empower native peoples to preserve the Amazon rainforest. – Reuters
