politics
апрель 18, 2026
Impacts of climate change and the fight for decent housing in Belém: challenges and contradictions of COP30
The Conference of the Parties (COP) is recognized as one of the largest mega-events in the world and represents the main international meeting on climate. Although marked by multilateral discussions...
TL;DR
- COP30 in Belém brings global climate discussions to a city facing significant housing and inequality issues.
- Urban interventions for COP30, such as infrastructure projects and park developments, have led to the displacement of vulnerable communities.
- The concept of 'risk' is presented not just as statistical probability but as a social construct influenced by poverty, eviction, and unemployment.
- Mega-events like COP often follow a 'business city' logic, prioritizing private economic interests and urban beautification over social needs.
- Despite progressive governance, urban interventions in Belém are widening territorial inequalities, particularly impacting Black and mixed-race populations in vulnerable areas.
- Belém's metropolitan region faces a substantial housing deficit, with a high percentage of households in favelas and communities.
- The article questions the promised legacy of mega-events, suggesting that benefits are not automatically realized and can be outweighed by maintenance costs or skewed towards specific economic groups.
- Local communities and social movements advocate for popular participation and alignment with local demands to ensure a positive and equitable legacy from mega-events.