This event will bring together representatives of diverse local communities from across regions to strengthen political support for the establishment of the Caucus for Local Communities and to elevate the role of local communities in shaping and implementing UNCCD outcomes. Through community-led testimonies and dialogue, the event will highlight the contributions of pastoralist, peasant, agroecological, mountain, forest and coastal communities to sustainable land management, rangeland stewardship and ecosystem restoration.

Attention will be given to advancing recognition of local communities as key implementation partners within the future UNCCD Strategic Framework, while showcasing community perspectives on land tenure, gender equality and drought resilience and promoting stronger inclusion of these priorities in COP17 decisions and related policy processes.