17 June: World Day to Combat Desertification

June 17, 2016

The World Day to Combat Desertification (WDCD) is being observed on 17 June across the world to promote public awareness related to international cooperation to combat desertification and the effects of drought.
2016 Theme: “Inclusive cooperation for achieving Land Degradation Neutrality”. The theme advocates importance of inclusive cooperation to restore and rehabilitate degraded land. It also advocates to contribute towards achieving the overall Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
2016 Slogan: “Protect Earth. Restore Land. Engage People”. It addresses the importance of comprehensive cooperation and participation in working towards achieving Land Degradation Neutrality.
Background
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) had designated declared June 17 as the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought in 1994. It was observed for the first time in 1995.
The day is observed globally to promote public awareness of the issue, and the implementation of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in those countries experiencing serious desertification or drought, particularly in Africa.