Wg Iii — Linkages Between Combating Land Degradation, Desertification and Conflict Prevention

After a general introduction of the UNCCD tasks at proposing measures to countries and regions with the aim to curbing natural resources degradation, promoting sustainable development and therefore avoid conflicts and movements of population, participants agreed that conflicts are mainly triggered by the bad management of natural resources, not necessarily by the fact that resources are limited. The good governance of natural resources is a key factor for conflict prevention, combating poverty, insecurity, migratory pressures

Participants addressed the main question on how can the partnership between the UNCCD, NATO and OSCE be enhanced, also having in view the respective mandates of these organizations and what form of partnership should be established and agreed that the UNCCD as the expert organization provides the general framework, and at national and sub-regional levels its action programme can be the basis for cooperation, whereas NATO and OSCE could raise awareness among their members regarding the links between environment and security and may also raise funds for local projects.