IWG on the Future Strategic Framework (2026-2028)
About IWG-FSF
The Intergovernmental Working Group on the Future Strategic Framework (IWG-FSF) supports the development of a new strategic framework for the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) beyond 2030.
The first phase of the Working Group (IWG-FSF I) was established at COP 16 through decision 4/COP.16 and carried out its work during 2025–2026. Drawing on lessons from the UNCCD 2018–2030 Strategic Framework, its midterm evaluation, the work of the Intergovernmental Working Group on Drought and other relevant COP decisions, IWG-FSF II developed key elements and a draft vision for the future strategic framework. Its final report, ICCD/COP(17)/2, was presented at COP 17.
At COP 17 in August 2026, Parties renewed the Working Group for 2026–2028 through decision 6/COP.17. IWG-FSF II will take this work forward by assessing the indicators of the current 2018–2030 Strategic Framework and developing a draft post-2030 Strategic Framework, including goals and targets.
What the group will do
IWG-FSF II has two main areas of work:
- Assessing the indicators
The Working Group will review the indicators used under the UNCCD 2018–2030 Strategic Framework and consider how they can be made more relevant and responsive for the post-2030 period.
This work will build on the initial assessment of the current indicators, which reviewed the 17 indicators currently used in UNCCD national reporting. The assessment will also consider the feasibility and accessibility of future methodologies and the capacities of Parties to apply them, taking into account relevant guidance in decision 8/COP.16.
2. Developing the post-2030 Strategic Framework
The Working Group will develop a draft proposal for the post-2030 Strategic Framework, including goals and targets. This work will build on:
- Key elements and draft vision developed by IWG-FSF #1 and presented at COP 17
- Views and guidance provided by Parties at COP 17
- Relevant work on the assessment of the current indicators
The Working Group will present an interim report for consultation at CRIC 25. It will then further develop and finalize the proposed framework and present its final report and proposal to COP 18 for consideration by Parties.
Group membership
IWG-FSF II brings together 20 members representing the five UN regions and relevant stakeholder groups. The Working Group consists of:
- Representatives from each UN region
- Three independent scientists
- One representative of civil society organizations
- One representative of intergovernmental organizations
The formation of IWG-FSF II will follow the procedures agreed by Parties in decision 6/COP.17.
How the group will work
Through meetings, intersessional work and consultations, IWG-FSF II will advance the assessment of indicators and development of the post-2030 Strategic Framework. Consultations with Parties, regional groups and relevant stakeholders will provide opportunities to contribute perspectives and expertise to the process. Information on upcoming meetings, consultations, documents and opportunities to engage will be published on this page as the work progresses.
