Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia – The Government of Mongolia and the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) have formalized an agreement to hold the 17th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) in Ulaanbaatar in 2026. This landmark event will gather representatives from 197 countries to address the pressing issues of desertification, land degradation, and drought.

Mongolia, grappling with nearly 77% of its land being degraded, is set to leverage COP17 to champion sustainable land management and restoration solutions on a global scale. The conference will coincide with the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP), highlighting the critical role of these ecosystems in supporting livelihoods and biodiversity.

"Mongolia is deeply committed to combating desertification," stated Odontuya Saldan, Mongolia's Minister of Environment and Climate Change. "Through initiatives like our One Billion Trees campaign, we are actively working towards a sustainable future."

UNCCD Executive Secretary Ibrahim Thiaw emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that up to 40% of the world's land is degraded, affecting nearly half of humanity. COP17 aims to build on the momentum of COP16 in Riyadh, strengthening global commitments and fostering cross-sectoral partnerships.

The two-week conference will feature high-level sessions, thematic dialogues, and forums focused on engaging youth, the private sector, and indigenous communities. Key objectives include finalizing a global drought regime, promoting sustainable rangeland management, and advancing the transition to renewable energy.

With 60% of its land dedicated to rangelands, Mongolia recognizes the importance of these ecosystems for its economy and the livelihoods of its people. COP17 and IYRP will provide a crucial platform to address the challenges facing rangelands and to promote sustainable land management practices worldwide.

The UNCCD, an international agreement on good land management, works to create wealth, grow economies, and ensure food security and clean water. The IYRP, initiated by Mongolia, aims to improve rangeland management and support pastoralist communities.