UNCCD SECRETARIAT

To provide a global framework that supports the development and implementation of national and regional policies, programmes and measures, in order to prevent, control and reverse desertification/land degradation and mitigate the effects of drought through scientific and technological excellence. In turn, these actions contribute to raising public awareness, standard setting, advocacy and resource mobilization, and thereby contribute to poverty reduction. 

The aim for the future is to forge a global partnership to reverse and prevent desertification/land degradation and to mitigate the effects of drought in affected areas in order to support poverty reduction and environmental sustainability.

The objective of this Convention is to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought in countries experiencing serious drought and/or desertification, particularly in Africa, through effective action at all levels. Supported by international cooperation and partnership arrangements, the Convention operates in the framework of an integrated approach which is consistent with Agenda 21, with a view to contributing to the achievement of sustainable development in affected areas. Achieving this objective will involve long-term integrated strategies that focus simultaneously, in affected areas, on improving the productivity, rehabilitation and conservation of land, and on the sustainable management of land and water resources, leading to improved living conditions, in particular at the community level.

194 Parties to the Convention.