Communities of Learning and Practice

Jefe/a Nacional de Proyecto en Guatemala

At COP 15, Parties requested the UNCCD Secretariat to encourage, support and facilitate communities of learning and practice to pursue co-learning and collaboration for drought risk reduction and resilience capacity-building issues.

As response to Decision 23/COP. 15 Para 8, the UNCCD Secretariat in collaboration with GWP launched the Communities of Learning and Practice (CLPs) with the mission to pursue co-learning and collaboration for drought risk reduction and resilience capacity-building issues.

The Communities of Learning and Practice (CLPs) are peer-to-peer knowledge-sharing and co-learning initiative aiming to strengthen the capacities of National Focal Points (NFPs), Science and Technology Correspondents (STCs), and other key stakeholders involved in drought management and efforts to combat desertification.

A total of six CLPs have been established and currently operational: a Global CLP and five regional communities (Africa CLP, Asia CLP, Latin America and the Caribbean CLP, Northern Mediterranean CLP, and Central and Eastern Europe CLP). The CLPs are thus a mechanism to promote intra- but also inter-regional knowledge sharing that help turning local experience and knowhow into global insights.

Led by a Chair and supported by small group of Co-Chairs, each CLP organizes co-learning activities tailored to members' needs. Specifically, the CLPs aim to:

  • Enhance Knowledge and Technical Capacities: Through workshops, expert discussions, and an online library, CLPs provide resources that deepen technical know-how for NFPs, STCs, and other key stakeholders working in drought management.

  • Promote the Adoption of Integrated Drought Practices: Members learn about innovative drought management tools, including the UNCCD Drought Toolbox, and explore pathways to scale these practices.

  • Support Policy Development: The CLPs facilitate the design and improvement of drought policies, governance frameworks, and National Drought Policy Plans, fostering resilient ecosystems and communities.

  • Foster Trust and Cooperation: The CLPs build community among participants, cultivating a shared commitment to managing drought and combating desertification collaboratively.

  • Encourage Proactive, Gender-Responsive, and Transdisciplinary Approaches: The CLPs promote forward-thinking and inclusive solutions that consider diverse perspectives and address drought management's complex, cross-sectoral challenges.

Each CLP has its own dedicated online platform where members can post ideas, share events, and case studies, network with global and regional peers, and connect directly through private messaging. Members also benefit from various in-person events, online capacity building activities, and resources. CLPs activities include: 

  • Resource Library of curated tools, scientific articles, case studies, and technical resources, i.a. the UNCCD Drought Toolbox.

  • Online Self-Paced Courses on the three pillars of integrated drought management planning (panned to be launched in 2025).

  • In-Person Workshops and Case Clinics dedicated to the design and enhancement of National Drought Policies and Plans.

  • Webinar Series on drought-related topics, from land degradation neutrality to early warning systems, and women led drought initiatives.

  • Case Study Call Outs and Competitions to identify best management practices, innovative solutions, and lessons learned from the ground experience.

  • Events and sessions at international conferences to increase networking among CLP members and invite new members to join.

  • Membership directory to identify and exchange with experts in your field and region.

  • Blogs and discussions to exchange on hot topics and burning questions as well as get advice from peers. 

The CLPs welcome participants from across sectors and regions, including policymakers, scientists, students, farmers, and field practitioners with an interest in drought-related issues. Women, youth, and indigenous people are particularly encouraged to join, bringing essential perspectives to the communities.

The UNCCD Secretariat warmly welcomes you to the CLPs, where we look forward to advancing knowledge and resilience in drought management, together.