UNCCD COP17 opened in Ulaanbaatar on 17 August under the theme "Restoring Land, Restoring Hope," focusing on ecosystem rehabilitation, drought resilience and mobilising finance for countries hardest hit by desertification. Delegates warned that current restoration pledges are not being translated into rapid action, making concrete funding and measurable projects a critical test. An 11-minute cultural programme highlighted Mongolian traditions, and about 50 Indigenous and civil-society activists protested on 20 August, demanding meaningful inclusion in formal negotiations. The summit runs until 28 August with representatives from 196 countries and the EU.
Mongolia Hosts UN Desertification Summit as Drought Deepens — COP17 Pushes for Funding, Action and Indigenous Rights
Mongolia hosts UN desertification summit as drought crisis deepens
Held under the banner "Restoring Land, Restoring Hope", the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) COP17 opened in Ulaanbaatar on 17 August, bringing together representatives from 196 countries and the European Union to tackle land degradation, drought and desertification. The summit runs until 28 August and prioritises tangible projects, finance and stronger drought resilience for the countries most affected.
Mounting Pressure on Mongolia's Drylands
Delegates warned at the opening that existing restoration pledges are not being translated into action quickly enough. Land degradation in many regions now threatens food production, water supplies and livelihoods, while Mongolia's arid zones face growing stress from prolonged drought, overgrazing and advancing desertification. Speakers said securing concrete funding and measurable projects will be a key test of COP17's impact.
Cultural Opening Highlights
The opening ceremony included an 11-minute cultural programme that showcased Mongolian traditions. Performers presented a ceremonial dance and the traditional long song Erkhem törandkhoomei, a distinctive form of throat singing. Artists from the Grand Theatre of National Art also presented the akhadag, the blue ceremonial scarf symbolising welcome and respect.
Calls For Indigenous Inclusion
On 20 August, around 50 Indigenous representatives and civil-society activists staged a protest in Ulaanbaatar, calling for greater recognition of Indigenous Peoples' rights and a stronger, substantive role in formal negotiations. Protesters urged governments to ensure that Indigenous Peoples, pastoralists, local communities, women and young people can meaningfully influence formal decision-making rather than being confined mainly to side events.
Activists also pressed for the formal recognition of traditional knowledge and the rights of communities whose livelihoods depend on land and grazing territories, warning that advisory caucuses without decision-making power would be insufficient.
As COP17 proceeds, delegates face the challenge of turning commitments into funded, measurable action on the ground while ensuring those most affected by land degradation have a clear voice in outcomes.
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