A major international conference aimed at addressing drought resilience kicks off as climate change amplifies global drought risks.
The Drought Resilience +10 Conference, held at the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) headquarters, gathers global experts, policymakers, and practitioners in a bid to fortify nations against one of the world’s most underestimated hazards.
Marking a decade since the High-Level Meeting on National Drought Policy, the conference represents a vital platform for stakeholders to assess the progress made in drought preparedness, response, and adaptation. The event emphasizes transforming knowledge into action that can help countries build sustainable drought resilience.
“Droughts are an insidious and dangerous climate-related hazard, which undermines food human security and is a major cause of internal displacement in worst-hit countries. It can wreak a devastating impact on the environment and economies and reverse progress in sustainable development,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo.
Saulo highlighted the need for solutions grounded in scientific knowledge and targeted policies: “We need sustainable solutions, based on scientific knowledge and tailored policies that promote integrated drought management practices and policies. We have the knowledge and the tools but we all too often lack the necessary political will and financial investment to build drought-resilient societies.”
A shift in approach
The conference will focus on the growing risks posed by climate change, compounded by increasing structural vulnerabilities in many regions. Experts are keen to emphasize a shift from reactive, crisis-driven responses to more proactive strategies, such as the use of seasonal climate forecasts and anticipatory action tools. Among these tools, innovative financing mechanisms are gaining attention as crucial components of a proactive drought management framework.
Participants will discuss advances in drought monitoring and forecasting, seeking to strengthen early warning systems that are critical for food security and health. These discussions are expected to align closely with the international Early Warnings for All Initiative. The conference will emphasize community-led actions and case studies that illustrate the impact of locally driven drought resilience programs.
Technological and policy innovations
Scientific advancements will also feature prominently at the conference. Satellite technology and artificial intelligence (AI) tools have revolutionized drought forecasting, monitoring, and impact assessment. These innovations allow for more precise tracking of drought conditions, providing decision-makers with valuable data to mitigate the worst impacts.
While drought is not a new phenomenon, climate change has altered the water cycle, exacerbating both extremes of rainfall and drought. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the intensification of the water cycle means that some regions are now experiencing more severe droughts, while others are suffering from heavier rainfall and subsequent flooding.
Changes in land use and land cover further compound the challenge. Deforestation, soil degradation, and urban expansion are limiting the earth’s ability to retain moisture, increasing vulnerability to drought in already high-risk areas.
“Healthy economies depend on healthy lands. We must urgently recognize that our land and natural systems are allies in our responses to climate change and drought, and we must leverage them for integrated, proactive drought management,” said Andrea Meza, Deputy Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). Meza emphasized the importance of the Drought Resilience +10 Conference as a platform to build momentum for UNCCD COP16, scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in December.
Global collaboration to build resilience
With extreme weather events becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change, international collaboration has become imperative to manage drought risks effectively. The Drought Resilience +10 Conference seeks to lay the foundation for future cooperation by fostering dialogue among diverse stakeholders, from scientists and government officials to community leaders and non-governmental organizations.
The discussions and outcomes from this conference will likely shape global drought management policies for years to come. By promoting the integration of new technologies, scientific knowledge, and locally grounded practices, the conference aims to inspire stronger commitments to building drought resilience worldwide.
As the world continues to grapple with climate-related hazards, drought remains one of the most formidable. However, through targeted policies, sustainable management practices, and strengthened global partnerships, the hope is that the devastating impacts of drought can be mitigated, protecting vulnerable populations and ecosystems from its worst effects.
For more information, visit Drought Resilience +10 Conference.
Source: WMO
Featured image credit: bedneyimages | Freepik
