Droughts are one of the costliest and deadliest hazards worldwide, even though they attract little attention unlike rapid-onset disasters, such as earthquakes, typhoons and floods. According to the UNCCD’s Economies of drought report, droughts cost the world more than USD 300 billion each year, affecting economies and livelihoods at scale. They reduce the quality of soil, decreasing moisture retention and depleting groundwater. Landscapes become more vulnerable to wind erosion, contributing to increased sand and dust storms that further hinder vegetation growth.

This June, the dialogue asks: how did we get here, and what consequences will we face if we continue down this unsustainable path? What work can be done within our local communities and with policymakers to support drought resilience and, subsequently, restore soil health, increase food security and support ecosystems? With drought projected to affect 3 in 4 people by 2050, this conversation has never been more relevant.

Session objectives

• Discuss the scale and gravity of drought vulnerability, the effects of decreased groundwater retention in connection to food production and land degradation, and long-term consequences of unsustainable water use on economies, ecosystems and societies.
• Explore practical pathways for drought risk management and prevention, highlighting current tools and methods with examples of real, applicable solutions already happening on the ground.
• Preview future COP17 Action Day activities, including key discussion topics, focus areas for water and drought prevention, and how to stay engaged with the conversation leading up to COP17 this August.
• Empower participants to advocate for sustainable water and land management and support drought resilience initiatives within their own communities.