Brazil is calling on the world to focus on climate change rather than military spending. As the country prepares to host the COP30 climate summit in November, officials are concerned that global leaders are too focused on defense issues. Brazilian Environment Minister Marina Silva expressed worries that military priorities could undermine efforts to combat climate change.
Silva’s comments come at a time when NATO member states have agreed to increase defense spending to 5% of their GDP, a move driven by rising military threats from Russia and ongoing conflicts worldwide. This decision has raised alarms in Brazil, where leaders emphasize the urgent need for climate action. Silva pointed out that while countries discuss financial targets for climate aid, they are simultaneously boosting military budgets.
The COP29 climate conference last year ended without significant commitments to help nations adapt to climate impacts like rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Silva highlighted the need for a shift in funding priorities. Instead of investing in military capabilities, she argued that resources should be directed toward fighting hunger and addressing the climate crisis.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva echoed these sentiments, stating that military spending globally amounts to around $2.7 trillion annually, funds that could be better spent on eradicating hunger and promoting sustainability. He stressed the importance of dialogue to resolve conflicts, particularly in regions like Ukraine.
Despite the geopolitical tensions, Silva reported receiving a warm response from other countries regarding climate negotiations. She is hopeful that this year’s COP30 will yield more concrete results than previous summits, focusing on implementing existing pledges rather than making new promises.
As Brazil prepares for the summit, the message is clear: the world must prioritize climate action over defense spending if we are to tackle the pressing environmental challenges ahead.