Youth and indigenous peoples' voices at COP30 Youth, Indigenous Voices & Representation at COP30: Gains, Gaps, and the Path Forward COP30 in Belém, Brazil marked a historic moment for public participation in global climate governance. Held for the first time in the Amazon region, the conference gave unprecedented visibility to Indigenous peoples , youth networks , and local communities —groups often disproportionately affected by climate impacts but underrepresented in climate negotiations. The location itself symbolized a shift: from the traditional halls of power in wealthy nations to the heart of a region whose ecological health is central to global climate stability. Yet despite increased visibility, the summit revealed persistent structural challenges. While youth and Indigenous leaders shaped public dialogue, they had limited influence over formal decision-making. This duality— gains in presence, gaps in power —defines the current landscape of climate representation. ...
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