Is the COP30 Accommodation Crisis Forcing the UN to Cut Delegations?

The upcoming COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, faces significant challenges, particularly concerning the exorbitant costs of accommodation, which threaten to restrict attendance from developing nations. The UN has called for a review of delegation sizes to manage these costs, while Brazil is attempting to increase hotel availability, although the situation remains precarious. This article delves into the implications of these developments, the health risks associated with travel to Belém, and advice for attendees on how to stay safe and healthy during their visit.

Last updated: 17 September 2025 (BST)

Key Takeaways

The UN is urging a reduction in delegation sizes for COP30 due to high accommodation costs.
Belém is experiencing a hotel price surge, impacting affordability for developing countries.
Health risks in Belém include Typhoid fever, necessitating precautions for visitors.
Brazil's efforts to increase hotel capacity may not adequately address the crisis.
Delegates should consider food and water safety to avoid illness during the summit.

Understanding the Accommodation Crisis

The COP30 climate summit is set to take place in November 2025 in Belém, a city located near the Amazon River. However, the escalating costs associated with accommodation have raised alarms among participating nations. Delegates, particularly from less affluent countries, are finding it increasingly difficult to secure lodging within their budgetary constraints.

The UN climate secretariat, led by Simon Stiell, has highlighted this issue, urging heads of various UN agencies to limit their delegations. This request reflects a broader concern about the logistical challenges posed by the limited number of available hotel rooms and the high prices being charged. Reports indicate that accommodations in Belém are averaging between £400 to £500 per night, significantly above what many delegations can afford.

Government Responses and UN Recommendations

In response to the accommodation crisis, Brazilian officials have claimed they are working on increasing the number of available hotel rooms. Nonetheless, the situation remains tense, with some governments even suggesting the relocation of the conference. Brazilian officials have firmly rejected these calls, insisting that the COP30 will proceed as planned in Belém.

During a recent meeting, the UN proposed that Brazil subsidise hotel costs, aiming to establish rates of £100 per night for delegates from the world's poorest countries. However, such a measure raises concerns about practicality and effectiveness, akin to “throwing gasoline on a fire” in a time of crisis. The feasibility of these subsidies and their potential impact on the overall situation remain uncertain.

The Health Risks of Attending COP30

While the accommodation challenges take centre stage, potential health risks in Belém cannot be overlooked. The city, while often perceived as having a low risk of malaria, has been associated with outbreaks of Typhoid fever. This illness, caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, is transmitted through contaminated food and water, making it a concern for international visitors.

A significant outbreak was reported in 2024, which has led to increased vigilance regarding food and water safety in the region. For those planning to attend COP30, it is crucial to understand these health risks and take necessary precautions.

Personal Experiences with Typhoid Fever

Typhoid fever can manifest gradually, often allowing individuals to underestimate their condition until it becomes severe. A personal account illustrates the insidious nature of the disease: after a trip to Asia, the individual experienced severe symptoms, including high fever and delirium, yet did not recognise the severity until a family member intervened. Fortunately, timely medical attention and antibiotics resolved the issue, but the experience underscores the importance of awareness and caution.

Staying Safe in Belém

For those attending the COP30 summit, it is imperative to prioritise health and safety. Here are some practical tips to minimise the risk of falling ill:

Drink Safely: Avoid tap water; opt for bottled or boiled water to prevent Typhoid and other waterborne diseases.
Food Choices: Consume hot, well-cooked food and avoid street vendors to reduce the risk of food contamination.
Utensil Hygiene: Ensure that utensils and plates are clean; consider using disposable options if necessary.
Vaccinations: Consult a healthcare provider about vaccinations for Typhoid and other region-specific diseases before your trip.
Seek Medical Attention: If you experience any symptoms of illness, seek medical help immediately.

The Importance of COP30

Despite the challenges presented by high accommodation costs and potential health risks, the importance of COP30 cannot be overstated. This summit represents a crucial opportunity for nations to come together and address the pressing issue of climate change. It is essential that delegates from all countries, especially developing nations, have the opportunity to participate fully in these discussions.

The outcomes of COP30 could have lasting implications for international climate policy and action. Therefore, ensuring equitable participation for all countries is vital for the success of the summit and the global response to climate change.

Conclusion

As the COP30 climate summit approaches, the issues surrounding accommodation and health risks in Belém highlight the complexities of hosting such a significant event. While Brazil is working to address the accommodation crisis, the high costs remain a barrier for many delegates. Additionally, potential health risks, particularly from Typhoid fever, require careful consideration and preparation. Attendees must remain vigilant in ensuring their safety while participating in crucial discussions aimed at combating climate change. How will these challenges affect the overall effectiveness of the summit? Only time will tell.

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