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The United Nations has urged its delegates to limit their attendance at the scheduled UN climate summit in Brazil this November, citing steep lodging rates in the host city of Belem.

Lodging Crisis Threatens Accessibility

Government delegations are apparently working hard to secure affordable accommodations, as escalating prices have sparked calls from some nations to move the event—a proposal that host nation officials have firmly rejected.

“Considering the capacity constraints in Belem, I would wish to strongly advise that chiefs of the international bodies review the size of their delegations,” wrote the UN climate chief in an public statement.

Support for Lower-income Nations

Brazil’s organizing committee reaffirmed its pledge to secure lodgings at discounted costs for delegates from lower-income states.

However, high costs and a shortage of available hotels have increased concerns that several developing nations may find it difficult to join the summit.

Press and Advocacy Organizations Likewise Impacted

Press groups and civil society bodies have also indicated that they may have to cut or abandon their participation of Cop30 due to steep housing costs.

Hosts have been cautioned that failure to resolve the housing situation could result in what some are describing as “the most exclusive Cop ever.”

Current Discussions and Future Plans

During a recent session, the United Nations suggested that the host nation underwrite accommodation costs to enable lodgings at around $100 per night for delegates from the poorest nations and between $400 and $500 dollars for other participants.

However, the executive secretary clarified that the government is already covering significant costs related to staging the event and is unable to provide further funding.

Officials from attending nations and the United Nations are scheduled to meet again later this week to advance discussions on the lodging situation.