Indigenous protesters clashed with security guards as they breached the main entrance of the COP30 climate summit in Belem, Brazil, demanding immediate action to protect the Amazon rainforest and their ancestral lands.
Dozens of protesters pushed past security personnel at the venue, which hosts thousands of global delegates. Some carried signs declaring, “Our land is not for sale” and “We can’t eat money.”
The confrontation resulted in minor injuries to two security guards. One guard was hit above the eye by a large drumstick, while another sustained a stomach injury and was removed by wheelchair.
Security forces managed to push the protesters back and used tables to barricade the entrance. They also confiscated several long sticks from the group.
The incident highlights growing frustration among Indigenous communities with ongoing industrial projects and development in the Amazon.
Noto, an Indigenous leader from the Tupinamba community, told media, “We want our lands free from industrial agribusiness, oil exploration, mining, and illegal logging.”
Esteemed Indigenous chief Raoni Metuktire also expressed widespread discontent among Indigenous groups regarding existing projects. He urged the Brazilian government to empower Indigenous people to safeguard the forests where they reside.
The protesters dispersed shortly after the breach, having earlier been part of a larger march toward the conference site. Security cordoned off the area and advised attendees to remain indoors until the situation was secure.
A United Nations spokesperson confirmed the incident, stating that “a group of protesters breached the security barrier at the main entrance of the conference, resulting in minor injuries to two security personnel and minor damage to the venue.”
The spokesperson affirmed that Brazilian and UN security measures were strictly followed. The venue is now secure, and negotiations are continuing as scheduled.
The main entrance, closed for repairs following the incident, is expected to reopen later this week.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has previously underscored the vital role of Indigenous people in climate negotiations. Dozens of Indigenous leaders had arrived by boat for the summit, advocating for greater involvement in forest management processes.