Other meetings & events

The midterm evaluation of UNCCD Strategic Framework is advancing toward the report to the COP.  The related intergovernmental working group will meet online to discuss the initial draft of the "Midterm evaluation of the 2018-2030 Strategic Framework" report, followed by further exchanges in writing as needed. The next and final meeting of the working group will take place on 25-28 June in Bonn to finalize the report for submission to COP 16, scheduled for 2-13 December 2023 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The report will be accompanied by a draft decision "Enhancing the implementation of the UNCCD in 2025-2030."  

The first of its kind in China, the Sustainable natural fibers (SNF) global conference is an international event aimed at advancing sustainability and responsible practices within the natural fibers, down, silk, and other ethically sourced materials. The global gathering will bring together growers and herders, standards and certification bodies, processors and manufacturers, brands and retailers, fashion designers, academics and government from across the natural fibers sector. The conference will feature plenary sessions, interactive workshops, and will provide invaluable networking opportunities. High-profile speakers and experts will provide insights on emerging trends, present-day challenges and strategic approaches to safeguard communities involved in natural fiber production. Topics to be addressed include climate change and its impact on herders, growers and farmers, sustainability trends in the natural fiber and fashion industry, regenerative agriculture, animal welfare, supply chain innovation, as well as green finance opportunities. The conference will also launch a global fashion competition to showcase for emerging designers specializing in the use of natural fibers. Under theme “Living towards beauty,”  the competition aims to build an international platform for exchange on sustainable fashion and encourage the next generation of designers to incorporate the aesthetics of sustainability into their work. The conference brochure is available for download from the side menu on the right. For more information on how to take part in this event, please visit the SNF global conference website.

UNCCD Science Policy Interface (SPI)-Bonn Water Network (BWN) Joint Session, 9:00-11:00 (CET), 22 March 2024

The 19th meeting of the Science-Policy Interface (SPI) will take place on 19-21 March 2024 in Bonn, Germany.   The meeting will bring together the leading scientists and high-level experts to discuss the objectives and deliverables of the SPI work programme according to Decision 18/COP.15.    

As we gear up to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Convention on 17 June, cultural events around Bonn – home of the Secretariat and the host of this year's Desertification and Drought Day global observance – reflect the city's mission as the hub of international cooperation and cultural diversity. The 2024 edition of the Over the Border music diversity festival, which UNCCD has been supporting throughout its eight-year history, will present a musical journey through urban Afrobeats, jazz sessions, Latin salsa and cumbia, Balkan beats and Celtic folk evenings. This year's festival will bring a total of 132 artists from 29 countries to 14 concerts at seven venues across the City of Bonn. More info: https://www.overtheborder-festival.de