Maldives Joins Global Summit to Combat Drought and Land Degradation

The Maldives has joined international leaders at the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, to address the escalating threats of drought and soil degradation. Representing the island nation are Ahmed Shan, Director of Knowledge Management, Research and Assessment, and Aishath Alhan Hameed, Senior Surveyor. Both officials are representing the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy in the high-level discussions held from August 14 to 28. This year’s summit focuses on strengthening national resilience to drought. Delegates are currently debating an international policy framework designed to establish critical early-warning systems and risk-financing mechanisms. These tools are essential for operationalizing drought-protection plans and mitigating the impact of extreme weather on fragile environments. Participants at the summit emphasized the urgent need to increase both public and private investment to rehabilitate agricultural land, soils, and grasslands. This effort is a cornerstone of the global target to achieve Land Degradation Neutrality, ensuring that the amount and quality of land remains stable or increases. The Maldivian delegation specifically highlighted the indispensable role of science in this fight. They underscored the necessity for robust research to monitor drought trends, manage precious soil and water resources, and restore natural ecosystems, aligning these efforts with the nation's broader climate change objectives. Operating under the theme “Restoring Land. Restoring Hope,” the Maldives reiterated its commitment to collaborate with other Small Island Developing States (SIDS). By partnering with international allies, the Maldives aims to develop comprehensive solutions to safeguard its fragile terrestrial habitats and shallow-reef environments. The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy affirmed that the Maldives will continue to pursue integrated strategies. By addressing both land-based and marine challenges simultaneously, the government seeks to ensure the nation’s diverse ecosystems remain resilient despite a rapidly changing global climate.