As the world's attention turns to Mongolia this week for one of the most important gatherings on land and drought policy, civil society is making sure its voice is heard before the official talks even begin.

Civil society organizations from across the globe gathered in Ulaanbaatar on August 16 for the CSO Pre-COP meeting ahead of UNCCD COP17 opening on Monday 17th.

Participants reviewed key conference issues, exchanged perspectives, and developed shared recommendations for the official negotiations. The meeting aimed to amplify the voices of communities affected by land degradation, desertification, and recurring drought.

Priority themes included desertification and drought, sustainable water management, land restoration, and food-system transformation. Participants emphasized the need for an integrated approach connecting environmental, climatic, social, and economic realities.

Limited funding remains a major obstacle to the meaningful participation of grassroots organizations, particularly those from Africa. Civil society organizations intend to contribute to negotiations, advocate practical solutions, build partnerships, and bring community realities into international decision-making.

The meeting highlighted that meaningful participation must extend beyond physical presence and enable civil society to influence decisions on land restoration and resilience.

HAF's own engagement starts today, as Vice President Souad Agnaou hosts a side event of panelist experts to share wide-reaching perspectives from across the globe on these important topics.

As COP17 officially opens today, the groundwork laid in Ulaanbaatar this week will be crucial in ensuring that the people most affected by desertification and drought aren't just observers, but active participants in shaping the solutions.

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