BELEM, Brazil (AP) — Indigenous people took to the streets, paddled the waterways, and protested at the heart of the venue during the United Nations climate talks known as COP30, which concluded on Saturday in Belem, Brazil. The conference aimed to amplify the voices of Indigenous peoples, emphasizing their role as stewards of the Amazon, the world's largest rainforest. This region plays a critical part in combating climate change by absorbing carbon pollution from the atmosphere.
Many Indigenous attendees expressed feelings of solidarity with tribes from various countries, celebrating some small victories in the final outcome of the talks. However, others criticized the conference for lacking substantial representation and ambition concerning climate issues impacting Indigenous communities. Thalia Yarina Cachimuel, a member of the Kichwa-Otavalo, noted, "This was a COP where we were visible but not empowered."
One notable development in the main political text included an acknowledgment of "the rights of Indigenous Peoples" alongside their land rights and traditional knowledge. Taily Terena, from the Terena nation, appreciated the explicit mention of these rights. However, Mindahi Bastida, an Otomi-Toltec member, argued that countries fell short in their efforts to phase out fossil fuels like oil and coal, stating, "They should see nature as sacred, not as merchandise."
Despite some nations advocating for strategies to decrease fossil fuel dependency, the final decision failed to address fossil fuels, disappointing numerous participants. Additionally, Brazil launched a financial mechanism aimed at incentivizing countries with substantial forest cover to preserve these vital ecosystems. Although a few nations pledged monetary support, critics like Jacob Johns described it as a false solution, arguing that it merely allows corporations to continue harmful practices while claiming to offset pollution.
Concerns over tokenism were prevalent from the start of COP30. Indigenous attendees voiced that mere visibility does not equate to genuine power. Sara Olsvig, chair of the Inuit Circumpolar Council, expressed dissatisfaction with the focus on symbolic presence rather than enabling effective participation of Indigenous peoples. Edson Krenak, from the Krenak people, shared that the limited access given to the 900 Indigenous representatives was inadequate for true representation.
Sônia Guajajara, Brazil’s minister of Indigenous peoples and an Indigenous leader herself, asserted that this COP represented the largest and most significant participation of Indigenous communities to date. While some delegates felt dismissed by the outcomes, many found strength in participating in demonstrations outside the venue.
At the conference's onset on November 10, Paulo André Paz de Lima, an Amazonian Indigenous leader, felt a lack of access for his tribe and others. When a group of demonstrators broke through barriers to enter the venue during the first week, their actions amplified Indigenous voices. "After breaking the barrier, we were able to enter COP, get into the Blue Zone and express our needs," said De Lima, referencing the official negotiation area.
Beyond drawing attention from non-Indigenous attendees, protests served as a means for Indigenous groups to connect with one another. On the final night before an agreement was reached, a group marched through the venue to advocate against violence and environmental harm, including recent atrocities affecting Indigenous communities in various territories. Leandro Karaí of the Guarani people emphasized the power of unity, stating, "When we’re together with others, we’re stronger."
As they marched with banners and traditional songs, the Indigenous group broke the silence within the COP corridors, demonstrating resilience and solidarity under a yellow sky.
