The 32-member Council will consider a new work program under the GEF’s eighth replenishment cycle (GEF-8) totaling USD 564.3 million, which is expected to generate USD 4.15 billion in co-financing for projects benefitting people and the planet.

Delegates will focus on approving an assessment on the biodiversity-water-food-health nexus as well as an assessment of the underlying causes of biodiversity loss and the determinants of transformative change.

A Just Land Transition would enable restoration of drylands while ensuring jobs, agricultural productivity, and social safety nets. Realizing this vision, speakers suggested, will require not only funding but also empowering community-based and women-led organizations.

Convening in Riyadh, delegates will undertake a midterm evaluation of the UNCCD 2018−2030 Strategic Framework, adopt the UNCCD’s biennial budget, and negotiate decisions around the sustainable use of land.