Indigenous protesters force their way into the COP30 climate summit, to demand climate action and forest protection.
On Tuesday, 11 November, protesters demanded access to the United Nations (UN) compound where thousands of delegates from around the world are attending this year’s climate summit in Belem, Brazil, Reuters reports.
An Indigenous leader from Tupinamba community, Nato, said: “We can’t eat money. We want our lands free from agribusiness, oil exploration, illegal miners and illegal loggers.”
Security guards attempted to push back the protesters and used tables to barricade the entrance to the COP30 venue.
A security guard with a cut above his eye reported that he had been struck in the head by a heavy drumstick, security proceeded to confiscate several long, heavy sticks protesters carried with them.
A spokesperson said in a statement: “Earlier this evening, a group of protesters breached security barriers at the main entrance to the COP, causing major injuries to two security staff, and minor damage to the venue.”
The statement continued: “Brazilian and UN security personnel took protective actions to secure the venue, following all established security protocols. Brazilian and UN authorities are investigating the incident. The venue is fully secured, and COP negotiations continue.”