Arab League Urges United Front Against Drought and Desertification

Wednesday 19 June 2024 - 13:10

In a resolute call to action, the Secretariat General of the Arab League has urged member states to intensify their efforts in combating the pressing issues of drought and desertification. This appeal was made in conjunction with the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, observed annually on June 17.

This year's commemoration holds special significance as it marks the 30th anniversary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), a pivotal international treaty dedicated to sustainable land management and addressing the challenges of drought. The UNCCD is one of the trio of Rio Conventions, which also include treaties on biodiversity and climate change.

Under the theme "United for Land. Our Heritage. Our Future," the Secretariat General underscored the critical need for comprehensive societal mobilization to support sustainable land practices. This call to action is particularly urgent for Arab countries, which are among the world's most ecologically vulnerable regions. An alarming 90% of the territory in these nations is categorized as arid or extremely arid.

The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought was officially proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1994. It aims to enhance public awareness about the severe challenges posed by desertification, land degradation, and drought. The day also seeks to spotlight viable solutions to prevent and reverse desertification and to bolster the global implementation of the UNCCD.

The Secretariat General's press release emphasized that addressing these environmental issues requires a united and sustained effort from all levels of society. By fostering a collective commitment to sustainable land management, the Arab League hopes to safeguard both the heritage and future of its member states against the advancing threats of drought and desertification.