UNCCD National Action Plans – Country-Level Strategies to Combat Land Degradation
Lead organization: United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) Participating countries: Over 160 countries, including all Central Asian states and the Russian Federation Instrument: National Action Plans (NAPs), mandated by Article 9 of the UNCCD Purpose: Implementing the Convention at the national level
National Action Plans (NAPs) are key policy and planning documents developed by countries to combat desertification, land degradation, and the effects of drought under the framework of the UNCCD. These plans provide country-specific strategies for restoring degraded land, enhancing land productivity, and building resilience to climate change.
NAPs serve as a platform for aligning national efforts with global objectives, particularly the goal of achieving Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN), as outlined in SDG Target 15.3. They promote cross-sectoral coordination, community engagement, knowledge-based planning, and integration of land degradation issues into national development agendas.
Key Objectives of NAPs:
Prevent and reduce land degradation and desertification
Restore degraded ecosystems and improve soil fertility
Strengthen sustainable land and water management practices
Promote climate change adaptation in land-based sectors
Support achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 15.3
Core Components:
Prioritization of vulnerable ecosystems and regions
Mobilization of financial resources and technical cooperation
Relevance to the Region:
In Central Asia and Russia, NAPs play a vital role in promoting sustainable land governance, encouraging regional collaboration, strengthening institutional capacity, and supporting communities in adapting to land and climate challenges.
