Story perspectives

Brazil's COP30 Designates 10 New Indigenous Territories Amid Struggles

11/20/2025

Center

Indigenous Territories Expanded

At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, the government designated 10 new Indigenous territories.
The move follows President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's recognition of 11 territories.
Indigenous leaders, including Dinamam Tuxu, say land rights support biodiversity and climate goals.
Despite 3,000 delegates, many Indigenous people face violence and exclusion from decision-making.
Advocates seek direct access to a 20% share of the Tropical Forests Forever Facility's $125 billion fund for Indigenous projects.

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Guajajara Secures Territories

At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, Sonia Guajajara, Minister of Indigenous Peoples, announced declaratory ordinances for 10 new Indigenous territories.
The announcement advances their demarcation amid Munduruku protests demanding land recognition and citing infrastructure threats.
Guajajara also confirmed progress on demarcation for Sawré Muybu and Sawré Ba’pim.
Indigenous leaders warn that the Ferrogrão railway could harm lands and urge government consultation.

History

Historical Context

Brazil's 1988 Constitution recognized Indigenous land rights, allowing for the establishment of over 400 territories. Despite this progress, only 50% of designated lands were demarcated by 1993, and ongoing struggles persist, exemplified by the recent designation of 10 new territories at COP30 amid protests from groups like the Munduruku. This highlights the critical link between land rights, biodiversity, and climate change advocacy.

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Indigenous Territories Expanded

At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, the government designated 10 new Indigenous territories.
The move follows President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's recognition of 11 territories.
Indigenous leaders, including Dinamam Tuxu, say land rights support biodiversity and climate goals.
Despite 3,000 delegates, many Indigenous people face violence and exclusion from decision-making.
Advocates seek direct access to a 20% share of the Tropical Forests Forever Facility's $125 billion fund for Indigenous projects.

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