Community conclusion of UN Convention to combat desertification
The European Commission has published a proposal for a Council Decision concerning the conclusion, on behalf of the Community, of the UN Convention to combat desertification. The Convention aims to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought, particularly in Africa, through effective action at all levels, supported by international cooperation and partnership arrangements. These activities should take place within the framework of an integrated approach with a view to contributing to the achievement of sustainable development in affected areas. Much of the aims covered by the Convention are addressed by Community policies in the field of the environment and sustainable development. In the research field, the specific programme for International Cooperation with developing countries (INCO-DC) contributes significantly towards the conservation of the environment and combating desertification. In addition the global change activities within the Environment and Climate RTD programme are also relevant. The full text of the Convention is annexed to the proposal for a Decision. This lays out the proposed actions and supporting measures, as well as annexes detailing the priorities for individual regions.