Abu dhabi: Land degradation and desertification are emerging as critical challenges with far-reaching implications for global employment and livelihoods, particularly in rural and land-dependent communities.
According to Emirates News Agency, a policy brief from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) titled "Just transition policy brief on decent work implications from land degradation and desertification" is the first of its kind to explore these vital connections. The brief positions the just transition concept within the framework of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and land degradation, examining how a just transition approach can foster more sustainable and inclusive responses.
The report underscores that approximately 1.2 billion jobs worldwide are contingent on the health of ecosystems. Land degradation poses a threat to employment and livelihoods by diminishing productivity, particularly in sectors that are heavily reliant on natural resources like agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
Conversely, initiatives aimed at restoring degraded lands and promoting sustainable land management can generate new employment opportunities and transform existing jobs. However, these shifts may also present challenges as new opportunities may arise in different locations or sectors, requiring new skills, or take time to develop.
The policy brief also discusses how the ILO Guidelines for a Just Transition towards Environmentally Sustainable Economies and Societies for All can aid efforts to combat land degradation and desertification.
In conjunction with the 17th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, held in Mongolia from August 17 to 28, 2026, the brief emphasizes the significance of social dialogue, skills development, social protection, support for sustainable enterprises, and adherence to fundamental principles and rights at work. It calls for greater involvement of governments, employers' organizations, and workers' organizations in policies addressing land degradation.
By integrating the world of work into land restoration efforts, the policy brief highlights opportunities to advance environmental goals while safeguarding livelihoods, creating decent work, and ensuring inclusivity.