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Indigenous Protesters Disrupt UN Climate Talks, Demand Action
15 Nov
Summary
- Indigenous groups protest at COP30 in Brazil, blocking main entrance
- Demand meeting with President Lula, reject deforestation and development
- Over 900 Indigenous people registered, more than triple previous record
As Brazil hosts the 2025 United Nations climate conference (COP30), Indigenous groups are seizing the opportunity to make their voices heard. On November 14th, just days into the two-week event, Indigenous protesters disrupted entry to the main venue, forming a human chain to block the entrance.
The demonstration, led by the Munduruku Indigenous group, was a "scream" over rights violations and decisions made without consulting them. They demanded a meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, rejecting plans for commercial development of rivers, a grain railway project, and deforestation carbon credits that they say threaten the Amazon rainforest.
Despite the peaceful nature of the protest, which required conference participants to use a side entrance, the Indigenous groups are making it clear that their concerns must be addressed. Conference organizers say this COP is the most inclusive for Indigenous people, with over 900 registered participants - far exceeding the previous record of 30.
As the world grapples with the worsening climate crisis, the Indigenous communities who rely on the Amazon are demanding to be heard. They are the "custodians of biodiversity and climate" and are frustrated that past climate talks have not led to meaningful action to protect their lands and way of life.
