Delegates are meeting in Belem, Brazil for the COP30 climate conference. However, there is disappointment among them. People do not expect big breakthroughs. The world is changing its energy use more slowly. Businesses want energy security and lower prices. Also, some groups want to reduce human rights. These things make climate action difficult.
The United States left the Paris Agreement before. This changed plans for clean energy. Because of more energy use, fossil fuels are still needed. The goal to stop using polluting energy is slower. So, COP30 might focus on limiting warming to below 2°C. This is less ambitious than 1.5°C.
Countries are also changing their priorities. Spain knows climate change is a big threat. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced a plan for climate shelters. These will be in public buildings before summer. The government will spend €20 million on flood and fire prevention. This helps people during heatwaves. Sanchez said, "Heatwaves are now the new normal."
However, this focus on practical help happens while human rights are threatened. Some groups are trying to stop progress on abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. They also oppose sex education. These groups, often funded from the US, hurt essential services. This especially affects women and girls.
China faces a falling birthrate. The government wants more babies. They offer healthcare for childbirth and childcare support. However, China also put a tax on contraceptives. This is confusing. It shows how global policies can be contradictory. The future is uncertain with these different goals.