UNCCD COP17 Gregorio Velasco Gil, International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026 Secretary

At the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) COP17 held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, Gregorio Velasco Gil addressed the critical importance of focusing on reindeer herders and pastoralists during the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026. He emphasized that this year serves as a pivotal moment for global discussion regarding the sustainability of rangelands and the livelihoods of these communities worldwide. The gathering brought together member countries and various partners to explore how best to support these groups, moving beyond viewing them merely as beneficiaries to recognizing their essential role as stewards of the land. Velasco Gil highlighted that pastoralists are fundamental to the sustainable management of natural resources, biodiversity preservation, and the production of high-quality food products across diverse ecosystems. He argued that these communities provide vital ecosystem services that must be protected and integrated into broader environmental strategies. By acknowledging their status as active guardians rather than passive recipients of aid, the conference aims to foster a deeper understanding of how traditional pastoral practices contribute to ecological balance and resource resilience. Looking toward the conclusion of the COP, Velasco Gil expressed his hope that the discussions would yield tangible results with a positive impact on pastoral communities globally. He noted that while significant progress is expected, it remains crucial to assess exactly how far these outcomes can be achieved by the end of the convention. The ultimate goal is to secure commitments that not only improve the lives of herders but also ensure the long-term health and productivity of rangelands across the planet. In his closing remarks, he called for unified support from all attendees to back pastoral communities and promote sustainable rangeland management practices. He thanked the audience for their presence and expressed optimism that collective efforts would lead to meaningful advancements in this field. The speech concluded with a strong appeal for continued collaboration to address the challenges facing these essential populations and the environments they depend on.