Protesters break into COP30 venue, clashing with security

Protesters Break into COP30 Venue, Clashing with Security

Around 9pm on Tuesday, a group of mostly Indigenous protesters clashed with security guards while attempting to force their way into the COP30 conference centre. This incident drew global media attention.

Videos showed dozens of Indigenous demonstrators pushing through the main entrance, rushing past metal detectors, and demanding access to the area where climate negotiators were meeting. UN security personnel tried to stop them, leading to scuffles before the protesters were removed.

Security and Venue Impact

A UN climate spokesperson reported that two security guards sustained minor injuries. The venue also suffered slight damage during the confrontation. One guard told Reuters he was hit by a thrown drumstick, resulting in a small cut.

Protesters’ Demands

Signs read “Our forest is not for sale” and demanded an end to oil drilling in the Amazon rainforest.
Nato, an Indigenous leader from the Tupinamba community, stated:

“We can’t eat money. We want our lands free from agribusiness, oil exploration, illegal miners and illegal loggers.”

Host Nation’s Position

Brazil, the host country of COP30, emphasized the importance of Indigenous voices in the climate negotiations. The event in Belém has seen a record number of Indigenous groups participating.

Summary: Indigenous protesters forcefully entered the COP30 venue to demand protection of their lands and halt environmentally harmful activities, highlighting their critical role in climate talks.

Climate Home News — 2025-11-12