The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought is commemorated each year on 17 June. This year's celebration carries special significance as 2004 marks the tenth anniversary of the implementation of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification.

It is estimated that 135 million people are at risk of being displaced by desertification. The problem appears to be most severe in sub-Saharan Africa, the Sahel and the Horn of Africa. This year's theme highlights the social dimensions of desertification: "Migration and Poverty".