Civil society to help shape UNCCD post-2030 strategy 

The UNCCD is forming an Intergovernmental Working Group on the Future Strategic Framework (IWG-FSF), as mandated by Decision 4/COP.16. This group will develop proposals for a post-2030 strategy, including potential goals and targets, and will review existing indicators to enhance national reporting on progress. 

In line with the Convention’s commitment to inclusive decision-making, civil society organizations (CSOs) will play a vital role in this process. The IWG-FSF will bring together three representatives from each regional group and five technical experts, one of whom will be a CSO representative. The UNCCD Secretariat, in collaboration with the CSO Panel, will oversee the selection of the CSO representative through a call for expressions of interest, ensuring compliance with the Terms of Reference and representativity criteria established by the Conference of the Parties. 

CSOs have long been integral to the work of the Convention, contributing to policy development, implementation and monitoring. At the recent UNCCD COP16 in Riyadh, CSOs actively engaged in discussions on land tenure, sustainable land stewardship and drought resilience, highlighting the importance of grassroots engagement in combating desertification and land degradation. The CSO Panel, elected by accredited organizations, serves as a liaison between civil society and the UNCCD, ensuring that diverse voices inform decision-making processes.  

The IWG-FSF is expected to present an interim report on its progress at the 23rd session of the Committee for the Review of the Implementation of the Convention (CRIC 23) in December 2025. This initiative underscores the UNCCD commitment to collaborative and inclusive approaches in addressing desertification, land degradation and drought. 

Photo: (c) IISD ENB/Anastasia Rodopoulou