Global Conference to Boost Drought Resilience Amid Rising Climate Risks

The Drought Resilience +10 Conference will take place at the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) headquarters, marking ten years since the High-Level Meeting on National Drought Policy.

As climate change intensifies drought risks worldwide, a major international conference will aim to strengthen resilience against one of the world's most deadly and often overlooked hazards. The Drought Resilience +10 Conference will take place at the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) headquarters, marking ten years since the High-Level Meeting on National Drought Policy.

The conference will gather experts, policymakers, and practitioners to reflect on a decade of progress in drought preparedness, response, and adaptation, while exploring practical solutions to help countries become more drought-resilient.

"Droughts are a dangerous climate-related hazard, undermining food security and causing internal displacement in the worst-hit regions," said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo. "We need sustainable solutions based on scientific knowledge, integrated policies, and greater political will to build drought-resilient societies."

The event will focus on how to shift from a reactive, crisis-driven approach to a proactive strategy, leveraging climate services such as seasonal forecasts and innovative financing mechanisms. It will also emphasize advances in drought monitoring, early warnings for food security, and scientific tools like satellite technology and artificial intelligence.

"Drought Resilience +10 offers a crucial opportunity to build momentum for UNCCD COP16," added UNCCD Deputy Executive Secretary Andrea Meza, referring to the upcoming conference on desertification and drought, set to take place in Riyadh this December.