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Held under the theme “Restoring Land, Restoring Hope”, UNCCD COP17 in Ulaanbaatar is focused on restoring degraded ecosystems, strengthening resilience to drought and securing funding for countries most affected by desertification.
The talks come as land degradation threatens food production, water supplies and livelihoods, while Mongolia’s drylands face growing pressure from drought, overgrazing and desertification. At the opening on 17 August, speakers warned that existing restoration pledges were not being translated into action quickly enough, making funding and measurable projects a key test for the summit.
The opening ceremony also highlighted Mongolian traditions. An 11-minute cultural programme featured a ceremonial dance, the traditional long song Erkhem tör and khoomei, a distinctive form of Mongolian throat singing. Performers associated with the Grand Theatre of National Art also presented a khadag, a traditional blue ceremonial scarf symbolising welcome and respect.
