UNCCD Youth Caucus – Empowering Youth for Sustainable Land

The 17th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the UNCCD will be hosted by Mongolia in its capital city, Ulaanbaatar, from 17 to 28 August 2026 under the theme "Restoring Land. Restoring Hope."

Youth Forum

The COP17 Youth Forum builds on the outcomes of COP14, 15 and 16, and is designed as a dedicated space for youth engagement that is structured, inclusive, and action-oriented. The Forum aims to enhance youth capacity to engage with UNCCD processes, facilitate dialogue between youth and decision-makers, and support the co-creation of solutions that address land degradation and drought challenges. It will also provide opportunities for youth to connect with partners, access knowledge and resources, and contribute to shaping outcomes linked to COP17.

Road to COP17: Virtual Global Youth Engagement Series

The Road to COP17 virtual engagement series is designed to serve as this pathway. Rather than functioning as a technical training program, the initiative seeks to guide young people through a progressive journey that helps them understand why COP17 matters, situates them within existing global commitments, creates space for collective youth consultation, and prepares them for effective participation both online and in person during COP17 itself.

Road to COP17: Advancing Youth Engagement in UNCCD Processes

10 July | 14:00-15:00 CEST

Co-organizers: UNCCD, UNCCD Youth Caucus

The first session of 4 Road to COP17 webinar series will explore how young people can meaningfully contribute to global efforts on DLDD. Rather than focusing on technical UNCCD structures, the conversation will build understanding around why land governance discussions directly affect young people and why participation in COP17 matters.

Road to COP17: Advancing Youth Engagement in UNCCD Processes

Ready To Engage?

Whether you're an individual changemaker or part of a youth-led organization, you're welcome to join us!

Join the UYC Community