The recently launched World Drought Atlas, produced by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) in collaboration with the CIMA Research Foundation, UNU-EHS and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, was recently launched at COP16, the largest UN land conference. This publication provides an in-depth analysis of drought patterns, impacts and risk management strategies.
Several experts from UNU-EHS were lead authors and contributors to the report. Their work emphasizes the interconnected nature of drought risks, which extend beyond immediate water shortages to disrupt ecosystems, economies and communities. Through their contributions, the Atlas not only highlights the pressing need for systemic approaches to drought management but also provides actionable recommendations to strengthen resilience and cooperation at local, national and international levels.
The World Drought Atlas and UNU-EHS’s contributions have gained significant media attention, with coverage across leading platforms such as:
SDG Knowledge Hub (IISD): A guest article authored by four UNU-EHS experts underscores key lessons from the Atlas, advocating for integrated drought risk management. Read more.
Deutschlandradio: An in-depth feature on the growing global drought risks detailed in the Atlas and the critical need for proactive solutions. More info.
Forbes: An article that draws attention to the alarming statistic that three out of four people worldwide could face drought-related impacts by 2050. Read more.
Cosmos Magazine: Coverage that explores the Atlas’s findings on the global scale and implications of droughts. Read more.
Infobae: Analysis of drought’s socio-economic impacts and the necessity for global cooperation to mitigate damages. Read more.
This international media coverage highlights the global relevance of the World Drought Atlas and reinforces the critical role of UNU-EHS in advancing science-based solutions to address climate risks.
