Hosting COP30 in Belém is an important milestone that brings the world to one of the most threatened regions on Earth: the Brazilian Amazon.
This event is more than just a climate change conference, it is also a call to action to make the world aware of the alarming reality of forests that are nearing the point of no return. The presence of indigenous peoples’ representatives and social organizations is critical if the urgency of environmental conservation and the rights of indigenous peoples are to be given weight in global discussions.
Despite the efforts of the Pará state government under the leadership of Geldel Barbalho to hide the flaws in its public policies through its institutional structure, the reality facing the people of Pará is clear. While inequality and environmental racism are visible, those who can make decisions about the future of our planet are sheltering in air-conditioned environments.
Indigenous peoples, on the other hand, have taken a firm and clear position. We warn that the commodification of land and the unrestrained exploitation of natural resources not only threatens our way of life, but also endangers the future of all humanity. Without clean air and clean water, we are all doomed to suffering and depravity. The wisdom of our indigenous ancestors is consistent with modern scientific conclusions, confirming that what is at stake is the survival of our planet.
The protests that took place during COP30 are far from riots and are a legitimate expression of resistance. Criminalizing future guardians is a common tactic of people who do not understand the seriousness of the situation. It is shameful that the intensity of the demonstrations is not justified by those who have actually already abandoned the fight for the people.
COP30 should be a forum for dialogue, but dialogue needs to be achieved through resistance, as indigenous peoples are not being heard or included in discussions that affect their lives. Violence has been intensified by those seeking to approve dead projects such as Decree 12.600/25 (Waterways Plan), which threatens territory and forests, and initiatives such as the privatization of rivers and ferrograão, as well as oil exploration in Foz do Amazonas.
While some succumb to colonial imperialism, those who fearlessly take a stand say no to oil exploration, illegal mining and land invasions. We demand that President Lula’s promises be fulfilled, that the demarcation of indigenous lands be implemented and that they be brought to the decision-making table.
Indigenous peoples who took part in the COP30 demonstrations are calling for a greater role in negotiations, more agile action in land demarcation, the right to veto projects that threaten their territories, and direct dialogue with authorities. They are demanding direct funding for climate action controlled by communities themselves and are opposing deadlines that would make it difficult to demarcate new land.
At COP30, indigenous peoples’ work will become a symbol of hope and a call for a sustainable and just future for all.
Link exists: Did you like this text? Subscribers can access it for free up to 7 times a day from any link. Click on the blue “F” below.
About The Author
