Arab Land And Climate Forum Highlights Urgent Environmental Issues Facing The Region

The Arab Land and Climate Forum's third edition began with a focus on "The Road to COP 16: Strengthening the Resilience and Flexibility of Arab Lands." This event addressed pressing environmental concerns. The opening session, "The Road to COP16: Priority Areas for Action in the Arab Region," featured key figures such as Dr. Osama Faqeeha from the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, UNCCD Executive Secretary Ibrahim Thiaw, AGFUND Executive Director Dr. Nasser Al-Qahtani, and ANNGO board chairman Prof. Hassan Al-Bilawy.

Participants highlighted the importance of raising awareness among Arab citizens, governments, and organizations about safeguarding the environment for future generations. They stressed the need for increased involvement of youth and women in climate change leadership roles. The first session, "Land: Towards Understanding the Causes of Desertification and Drought," included experts like UNCCD Science and Technology Correspondent Dr. Talal Darwish, FAO Water and Land Sector Officer Dr. Feras Ziadat, and IPCC member Dr. Samir Tantawy.

The second session focused on how desertification, land degradation, and drought affect Arab children. Notable attendees included Bibliotheca Alexandrina director Prof. Ahmed Zayed, King Abdullah Specialist Hospital Child Protection Department head Prof. Maha Al-Muneef, UN Human Rights Council member Dr. Hind Khalifa, WHO Regional Advisor for Climate and Environment Prof. Mazen Malkawi, and UNICEF Gulf Area Office deputy representative Jumana Haj.

Discussions centred on children's rights amid the social, economic, and environmental challenges posed by desertification and drought in the region. Experts examined how these issues impact children's well-being and development.

During discussions on desertification causes, experts explored social and economic factors contributing to land degradation in the Arab region within the context of climate change. These discussions aimed to deepen understanding of these complex issues to inform future actions.

The forum underscored the urgency of addressing environmental challenges through collaborative efforts across various sectors. By involving diverse stakeholders, including youth and women leaders, the forum aimed to foster a more inclusive approach to combating climate change impacts.

As discussions progressed at the forum, participants emphasised that protecting Arab lands requires collective action from all sectors of society. The insights shared during this event are expected to guide regional strategies leading up to COP 16.

The forum concluded with a call for continued dialogue and cooperation among nations in addressing climate-related challenges affecting Arab lands. Participants expressed hope that these efforts would contribute to building resilience against future environmental threats while ensuring sustainable development for all communities involved.

With inputs from SPA