Ulaanbaatar Selected for UNCCD COP17
Focus on Combating Desertification and Land Degradation
Mongolia’s Commitment to Environmental Conservation Highlighted
The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) has announced that Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, will host the 17th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) in 2026. This decision underscores Mongolia’s proactive stance in addressing environmental challenges, particularly desertification and land degradation. With approximately 77% of its territory affected by land degradation, Mongolia stands as one of the nations most impacted by desertification. The upcoming conference aims to accelerate global efforts in land restoration and sustainable management practices.
Mongolia’s dedication to environmental conservation is further exemplified by initiatives such as the “Eternal Mongolia” project. Launched in April 2024, this project focuses on the community-based conservation of vast natural areas, including the planet’s last intact temperate grasslands. Collaborating with The Nature Conservancy, the Mongolian government aims to achieve the nation’s climate and biodiversity goals through sustainable practices.
The selection of Ulaanbaatar as the host city for COP17 follows the recent COP16 held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in December 2024. During that conference, delegates from 197 nations engaged in discussions to strengthen drought resilience worldwide. Despite extensive negotiations, a global plan to tackle worsening drought conditions was not finalized, highlighting the urgency for continued international collaboration.
As preparations for COP17 commence, the global community anticipates that the conference in Mongolia will serve as a pivotal platform for advancing sustainable land management solutions and reinforcing commitments to combat desertification and land degradation.navlistGlobal Efforts Intensify to Combat Desertification and Drought
