Archbishop Marinez Bassotto Advocates for Central Role of Indigenous Voices at COP30 in Belém

Archbishop Bassotto's Call for Indigenous Inclusion

The Most Rev. Marinez Bassotto, Primate of the Anglican Episcopal Church in Brazil and Bishop of the Amazon, recently underscored the critical importance of integrating indigenous voices and environmental justice into the discussions at the upcoming COP30 climate talks. Her advocacy was highlighted during an online press conference for ecumenical faith leaders held on October 20. COP30, the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference, is slated to take place in Belém, Brazil, from November 10 to 21, 2025.

As the first female primate of the Anglican church in Latin America, Archbishop Bassotto emphasized that indigenous peoples possess invaluable ancestral and practical knowledge essential for environmental preservation. She firmly stated, 'Climate justice will only be achieved when the territorial and cultural rights of these communities are fully recognized and respected.' Her commitment extends to the People's Summit, a parallel event to COP30, where she plans to host a 'Tapiri' at the Catedral Anglicana de Santa Maria, aiming to foster dialogue and solidarity. Currently, Archbishop Bassotto is in the United Kingdom for a series of meetings to prepare for COP30, engaging with church leaders and activists on pressing climate justice issues.

COP30: A Historic Summit in the Amazon

The 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP30, will be a landmark event hosted in Belém, Pará, Brazil. This marks the first time such a significant global summit will be held within the vital Amazon biome. The conference, scheduled at the Hangar Convention and Fair Centre of the Amazon, is set to tackle crucial global challenges, including efforts to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, securing climate finance for developing nations, and ensuring a just transition away from fossil fuels.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has characterized COP30 as the 'People's COP,' signaling a deliberate intention to prioritize the involvement and perspectives of local communities. Complementing the official proceedings, the People's Summit, running from November 12-16, 2025, will serve as a vital platform. This parallel event will enable civil society, social movements, and marginalized communities to articulate their concerns and demands for climate justice directly.

The Indispensable Role of Indigenous Peoples in Climate Action

Indigenous communities are globally recognized as frontline defenders against climate change, with their ancestral territories harboring an estimated 80% of the world's remaining biodiversity. Their traditional knowledge and sustainable practices are considered indispensable for developing effective and equitable climate solutions. However, indigenous rights in Brazil continue to face significant challenges, including extensive deforestation in the Amazon, which saw 68.9 million hectares of forest cover lost between 2001 and 2023. This loss not only threatens biodiversity but also displaces indigenous peoples and accelerates climate change.

In response, the Brazilian government has initiated efforts to enhance indigenous inclusion in climate discussions. These include the establishment of an International Indigenous Commission and a Commission of Traditional Communities, alongside the launch of the Kuntari Katu programme, designed to train indigenous diplomats. Furthermore, the forthcoming Tropical Forests Forever Fund (TFFF) is expected to allocate at least 20% of its resources directly to indigenous peoples and local communities, aiming to support their vital conservation efforts.

Conclusion

Archbishop Bassotto's compelling call underscores a growing international consensus that meaningful and effective climate action at COP30 and beyond hinges on the active participation and empowerment of indigenous peoples. Their unique perspectives, deep ecological understanding, and profound connection to the environment are increasingly seen as essential for developing equitable and sustainable strategies to combat the global climate crisis.