ISDEHS 2006 will be the first of a series of symposia intended to create an ongoing cross-cultural dialogue as well as to reposition the ongoing desertification debate within the context of human security. This year’s discussions will address the theme ‘Regional Perspectives, Policy Responses and Sustainable Development in the Arab Region - Challenges and Opportunities’. However best practice examples and research from other semi-arid and arid regions are certainly welcome.
Some of the thematic sessions are as follows:
• hydrology and water scarcity - climate change scenarios and livelihood vulnerability
• assessing the implications of desertification in terms of human security
• gender issues: women's role in the development of deserts and combating desertification
• integrating drylands research into sustainable development policy and project implementation
• the institutional dimensions of desertification
• the role of local bodies in implementing the United Nations convention.