The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (WDCDD) is observed annually to promote public awareness of international efforts to combat desertification. The day should remind everyone that land degradation neutrality is achievable through problem-solving, strong community involvement and cooperation at all levels.

WDCDD is celebrated worldwide on 17 June, with a 2018 focus on sustainable land management as a way to regenerate economies, create jobs and revitalize communities. Under the slogan Land has true value – Invest in it, WDCDD invites producers, consumers and policy-makers to make a difference by investing in the future of land.

WDCDD was established by the UN General Assembly 23 years ago to raise awareness about global and national actions that are required to address desertification, land degradation and drought.

CNVP is a leading international civil society organisation that is active in all six Balkan countries. It uses evidence-based analysis to improve the sustainable livelihoods of rural communities affected by the ongoing process of environmental damage, climate change, desertification and drought.

CNVP aims to:

• protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial eco-systems;
• combat desertification and drought, (both of which contribute to poverty);
• halt and reverse land degradation; and
• prevent bio-diversity loss.