Sat Dec 14 13:58:22 UTC 2024: ## UN Drought Talks in Saudi Arabia End Without Binding Agreement
**Riyadh, Saudi Arabia –** The UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) COP16 summit in Riyadh concluded without a binding agreement on drought response, despite hopes for a protocol addressing the escalating global crisis. While significant progress was made towards establishing a future global drought regime, negotiations failed to reach a consensus on a legally binding commitment.
The 12-day conference, which ended a day behind schedule, saw intense discussions between participating nations. UNCCD Executive Secretary Ibrahim Thiaw expressed disappointment, acknowledging that more time was needed to find common ground. A final decision indicated that discussions would continue at COP17 in Mongolia in 2026.
A UN report released during the summit highlighted the devastating economic impact of droughts, estimating annual costs exceeding $300 billion and projecting that 75% of the world’s population will be affected by 2050. African nations, notably unified in their stance, expressed frustration that a binding protocol – ensuring government accountability for drought preparedness and response – was not achieved. Sources indicated that developed countries resisted a binding agreement, favoring a less stringent framework instead. Despite the lack of a binding agreement this year, participants remain optimistic that a comprehensive drought regime will be finalized at the next conference.
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