Mass Protests Demand Climate Action at COP30 in Belem

Thousands of activists took to the streets of Belem on Saturday to demand urgent climate action during COP30, marking the first mass protest at a UN climate conference since 2021. According to The Guardian, the rally featured indigenous chants, Brazilian songs, and calls for environmental justice, as demonstrators urged negotiators to increase their climate ambitions.

This 'Great People's March' followed two earlier protests led by indigenous activists from the Tapajos region. Deutsche Welle reported that the march spanned about 4.5 kilometers, showcasing a vibrant display of banners, flags, and music, with many participants dressed in black to symbolize a funeral for fossil fuels and calling for reparations for communities affected by climate change.

Activists carried coffins labeled 'coal,' 'oil,' and 'gas,' underscoring the message that the fossil fuel industry must be addressed in the fight against climate change. Some participants, like Raquel Wapichana, emphasized their struggles against threats to their land and livelihoods from mining and agribusiness.

Euronews noted that the protests were not just about climate action but also about ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard in climate negotiations. The Brazilian host government has indicated that they do not plan to issue a cover decision at the end of the summit, focusing instead on implementation, though the outcomes of the ongoing negotiations remain uncertain.

Activists expressed concerns that critical issues like climate finance, transparency, and inadequate national climate plans have yet to be resolved as the conference progresses. The protests reflect a broader global movement advocating for environmental justice, accountability, and urgent action to combat climate change, as the impacts continue to disproportionately affect vulnerable communities around the world.