UN Climate Body Demands Immediate Fix to COP30 Security and Site Failures in Belém

Overview

• UNFCCC chief Simon Stiell ordered Brazilian authorities to present an immediate plan to address security gaps, extreme heat, leaks and other hazards at the COP30 venue.
• The demand follows a protest that breached the Blue Zone, causing minor injuries to two security staff and damage before UN and Brazilian teams contained the incident.
• Stiell’s letter alleges the presidential office told Federal Police not to disperse some protesters, a claim Brazil disputes as it stresses that UNDSS has charge of Blue Zone security.
• The Casa Civil says all UN requests are being met, citing expanded police perimeters, new barriers, extra air-conditioning units and repairs to roof failures coordinated with UNDSS.
• At the UN’s request, Federal Police will open an inquiry and analyze Blue Zone camera footage as worries continue over safety, logistics and equitable participation even as the summit proceeds.