Mon Oct 07 22:53:32 UTC 2024: ## Global Summit Aims to Bolster Drought Resilience Amidst Climate Change Woes
**Geneva, Switzerland** – As climate change continues to intensify drought risks worldwide, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) will host the Drought Resilience +10 Conference in Geneva, bringing together experts, policymakers, and practitioners to address this critical challenge.
The conference, marking a decade since the High-Level Meeting on National Drought Policy, will delve into the progress made in drought preparedness, response, and adaptation over the past ten years. The goal is to translate knowledge into actionable solutions to help countries become more resilient to droughts, which are considered one of the world’s most deadly hazards.
“Droughts are insidious and dangerous,” warned WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo, highlighting their detrimental impact on food security, human displacement, and economic development. “We have the knowledge and tools, but we need the political will and financial investment to build drought-resilient societies.”
The conference will focus on proactive drought management, emphasizing the shift from reactive crisis-driven approaches to a more anticipatory one that leverages climate services, seasonal forecasts, and innovative financing mechanisms. Advancements in drought monitoring and forecasting will be discussed, including the integration of satellite technology and artificial intelligence tools for improved impact assessment.
The conference will explore case studies and community-led actions, highlighting the successes and challenges in integrated drought management across the globe. Brazil’s Northeast region, which has implemented comprehensive drought management policies integrating early warning systems and sustainable water management practices, will be showcased as a prime example of proactive drought management.
The conference will also examine the devastating impact of droughts, particularly in Africa, where they accounted for 95% of reported deaths from weather, climate, and water extremes between 1970 and 2021.
The Drought Resilience +10 Conference is a crucial step in the global effort to combat desertification and build resilience to climate change. The conference’s final declaration will include recommendations for countries to accelerate drought resilience efforts, focusing on policy implementation, preparedness plans, and adaptation strategies.
The outcomes of the conference will inform the global drought community and provide valuable input for the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP-16) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in December 2024.
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