Among the UN’s designated days, one stands out for its growing urgency in the face of climate change: this week’s World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought. Established in 1994 by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, this day, which is marked on June 17 every year, is a global reminder of the escalating crisis of land degradation and water scarcity. While the effects of desertification are seen worldwide, few regions are as vulnerable — or as consequential — as the Middle East.

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has marked the UN’s World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, an awareness event held annually on June 17. The day aims to spotlight the urgent need to…

Among the UN’s designated days, one stands out for its growing urgency in the face of climate change: this week’s World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought. Established in…