The cruel irony of this year’s Carnival is that soaring temperatures, especially in Rio de Janeiro, are sparking concerns about extreme heat. The festival is becoming a reminder of the climate crisis with some groups weaving in climate change themes into their performances to raise awareness.
Beyond this Carnival, another major event is on the horizon this year: a ‘climate carnival’ in Belém, the annual global Climate Change conference, also known as COP30.I hope no one minds if I call this event a carnival of Climate and Biodiversity. This meeting to, has its rhythm, costumes (or masks), and hangovers from the past 29 similar meetings. There are beatmakers, dancers, and many masked players like lobbyists. And, of course, there are the onlookers—people whose lives depend on the outcomes of this grand event. And of course, Brazilian President Lula steps into the role of King Momo and kicks off this Climate Carnival.
A few weeks ago, I was in Rio de Janeiro for the Annual Strategy Meeting of CAN International, a network of civil society actors actively engaged in addressing the climate crisis, human rights, and justice. We were fortunate to hear from COP30 President-elect Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago and other senior officials from the Brazilian government. The President-elect, in his polished diplomatic style, reminded us that COP30 is no silver bullet but emphasized President Lula’s commitment to engaging civil society. While this sentiment is welcome, we need to remind all political leaders that people’s participation is a right, not a favor. Civil society has always been active in these spaces and will continue to be, even in restricted environments.
Ironically, President Lula, with support from André Corrêa do Lago, pressured Brazil’s Institute of Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA) to authorize oil projects at the mouth of the Amazon. Their argument? That oil is part of the energy transition. The contradiction is stark: inviting civil society to Belém to feel included while allowing the hosts to do as they please.. This hypocrisy threatens both his legacy and Amazon’s future. What else can we call this?
At the CAN meeting, we had intense discussions about the need to move beyond simply ending fossil fuels (which is non-negotiable) and to escalate demands for a Just Transition. This is more than a theoretical concept; interpretations range from progressive initiatives to conservative greenwashing and false solutions. At COP30 leaders must commit to a just transition—one that directly supports Indigenous peoples, farmers, and workers. transitioning to cleaner, safer, and affordable energy. The solution to the climate crisis is not a fantasy; it is rooted in social and economic justice, rights, and the obligations of state and non-state actors. Equity, fairness, and respect for all people are at the heart of a just energy transition. We don’t need superficial adjustments but a deep systemic change backed by political commitment, financial resources, institutional capacity, technology transfer, and changes to the rules of the game.
Back in Brazil, President Lula may be enjoying Carnival, but he and his advisors must recognize that he has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to leave a strong legacy—not just for Brazil but for the planet. As we count down to COP30, the actions of his government contradict the urgent needs of the world. Flirting with the oil and gas industry will not earn him, nor his progressive allies, any credit. Resistance to these moves is already mounting. During a recent visit to Belém, Lula encountered angry citizens protesting outside a COP30 investment announcement. Activists from 350.org, the Amazonian Working Network (GTA), the Marajó Observatory, the Pororoka Collective, and Engajamundo unveiled a large banner that read: “Destroying the Amazon for oil and gas is not worth the price.” The protest occurred in front of a newly renovated building meant for COP30 events—an ironic setting for a fight over the Amazon’s future.
So, let someone remind Mr. President that he is not truly King Momo, dancing to the beat of rich fossil fuel investors while making contradictory statements. He is a leader who must be held accountable for his actions and inactions. The stakes are high, the world is watching, and this meeting must be the pivotal moment to end fossil fuels and implement a just energy transition
With support from progressive leaders, politicians, scientists, and investors, Lula and his administration must ensure that COP30 is not a mere spectacle but a landmark summit that delivers for both people and the planet. Until that happens, civil society will not relent. We will support, challenge, agitate, organize, and campaign—and we will succeed.
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