Halfway through the first week of COP30 the situation remains stuck.
The major sticking points are climate finance for developing countries and how nations should follow up on their climate plans. The UN has concluded that current plans are far from sufficient, yet many countries oppose the EU’s proposal for a stronger review process.
At the same time, the atmosphere in Belém is completely different from the last COP meeting. Civil society is more visible and vocal than ever, with demonstrations, seminars, and strong engagement from organizations, local communities, and Indigenous peoples. Brazil’s presidency is highlighting their crucial role and the need to protect tropical forests and biodiversity.
Despite slow negotiations, the public’s engagement offers hope.
On the streets, there is a clear demand for more ambitious climate action even if it has yet to be reflected in the negotiation rooms.