Desertification, land degradation, and climate change represent some of the most daunting global environmental challenges of the 21^st century. These issues are particularly critical in arid and semi-arid regions, where fragile ecosystems are highly vulnerable to climate variability and anthropogenic pressures. It is estimated that more than two billion people worldwide rely on these ecosystems for their livelihoods, food security, and access to water.

Aligned with the proclamation of 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, which emphasizes the crucial role that sustainable management of rangelands and the pastoralist communities play in maintaining ecosystem health, food security, and climate resilience, the International Conference on Soil & Water Resources Management for Combating Desertification in Drylands under Climate Change (SWDCC’2026) aims to serve as a premier global platform for researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and development partners to exchange knowledge, present scientific findings, and foster collaboration on sustainable land and water management in drylands.

Organized by the Laboratory of Eremology and Combating Desertification (LR16IRA01) of the Institut des Regions Arides (IRA) and scheduled to take place from 15 to 18 May 2026 on the culturally rich and ecologically significant island of Djerba, Tunisia, the SWDCC 2026 conference will serve major celebration :

• the 50^th anniversary of IRA (1976-2026). This conference is among a series of events organized by the various structures of IRA (for more details visit : www.ira.agrinet.tn)
• It is strategically aligned with the international observance of the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, held annually on 17 June. This alignment is not only symbolic but purposeful, emphasizing the conference’s dedication to raising global awareness about the urgent challenges posed by desertification and drought, and underscoring the global community's collective responsibility to address these issues. The timing encourages momentum and engagement that extends beyond the conference dates, contributing to sustained efforts throughout the year.
• It is with profound respect and gratitude that SWDCC 2026 pays tribute to the late Houcine Khatteli, former Director General of the Institut des Regions Arides, who passed away in 2021. His visionary leadership and lifelong dedication to desertification research, sustainable land management, and environmental protection laid a strong foundation for initiatives such as this conference. His legacy continues to inspire researchers, practitioners, and policymakers committed to combating land degradation and fostering resilience in Tunisia’s drylands.
• The international year of rangelands and pastoralists (2026)
• COP17 UNCCD, August 2026, Mongolia

This symbolic connection strengthens the conference’s commitment to accelerating progress towards achieving Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN), a critical target under the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). Achieving LDN is vital to preserving ecosystem services, sustaining livelihoods, and enhancing climate resilience in drylands worldwide. Furthermore, SWDCC 2026 supports broader Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those related to ending hunger (SDG 2), ensuring access to clean water (SDG 6), promoting sustainable land use (SDG 15), and combating climate change (SDG 13).

The conference is designed to be truly inclusive and multidisciplinary, welcoming a diverse range of participants. These include researchers and academics who contribute cutting-edge scientific knowledge; environmental professionals and practitioners implementing field-level solutions; water and soil resource managers responsible for maintaining ecosystem health; policymakers and government agencies that shape regulatory frameworks and resource allocations; NGOs and development organizations working on community engagement and capacity building; graduate students and early-career scientists eager to innovate and learn; and private sector actors invested in the development and deployment of sustainable land use and water management technologies.

By bringing together these varied voices and expertise, SWDCC 2026 aims to foster collaborative dialogue, share best practices, and catalyze innovative approaches to combat desertification and enhance the sustainable management of soil and water resources in drylands under climate change.