Trendpills
Hundreds of protesters have stormed the construction site of the upcoming COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, demanding greater inclusion and social justice in the environmental conference's agenda. The demonstrators, identified as members of the Landless Workers' Movement (MST), breached security fences and occupied the grounds of the Mangueirão stadium, which is currently undergoing renovations for the 2025 event.
The protest aimed to draw attention to the group's concerns that the summit is advancing a form of "green capitalism" that ignores the needs of indigenous populations, small farmers, and the urban poor. According to statements from the movement, the demonstration was a call for a more popular and equitable approach to climate solutions. Organizers argue that significant public funds are being invested in infrastructure for the event without addressing longstanding social issues, particularly demands for agrarian reform and the rights of marginalized communities.
Footage from the scene showed a large crowd carrying flags and banners marching into the stadium complex. Some participants were reported to be carrying batons, though the occupation was described as largely symbolic and no major clashes were immediately reported. The MST stated that their action was meant to highlight the contradictions of hosting a major climate conference in the Amazon while local communities feel excluded from the process and its potential benefits.
The group is demanding a formal role in the COP30 discussions, asserting that those most affected by climate change and deforestation must be central to decision-making. The incident underscores the growing tensions between official environmental policy and grassroots movements who are raising concerns over the social impact of the climate conference. Government officials have not yet issued a formal response to the protesters' specific demands following the occupation of the venue.
