UNCCD COP16 to tackle desertification and land degradation in Riyadh

November 21, Kathmandu: The 16th session of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP16) will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from December 2 to 13. The conference will bring together global leaders, policymakers, and experts to address critical issues of land degradation, desertification, and drought.

A key focus will be on promoting sustainable land management and accelerating investments in land restoration to combat the adverse impacts of climate change.

Preparatory events, including the Road to Riyadh dialogues, have emphasized collaboration among governments, NGOs, and scientists to develop actionable solutions.

The conference will also explore regional strategies and global frameworks to ensure resilience against desertification and drought while addressing the need for fair resource mobilization to fund conservation efforts.

Coinciding with the 30th anniversary of UNCCD, COP16 will be the largest UN land conference to date, and the first UNCCD COP held in the Middle East and North Africa region.