This session highlights the need for innovative and integrated drought management approaches in the context of climate change. The discussion is informed by the ongoing joint activities of the convening organizations and members of the "Drought Preparedness Working Group" in the framework of the Global Framework for Water Scarcity in Agriculture under a changing climate (WASAG).

People will feel the impacts of climate change through climate shocks such as droughts and floods which bring the most disruption to water security. Drought affects every climate region with more severe impacts in the dry-lands where existing water resources to buffer the consequences are limited.

The cycle of degradation of our water resources during droughts is not irreversible if the necessary interventions are made to ensure the sustainable management of land, water and food systems together. Land and water restorations are some of the cost effective solutions to enhance water storage, mitigate impacts of drought and biodiversity loss. Investments in early warning systems and emphasis on water conservation, managing consumptive use, water recycling and rainwater harvesting will help reduce demand pressures both during and between droughts. While defining the targeting strategy, priorities should be given to those countries and communities that need interventions the most. We need to move away from our ‘silo thinking’ towards a coordinated approach. Coordination should be a priority for water and climate experts, social entrepreneurs, investors, multi-national corporations and SMEs, and decision-makers at all levels. It can help avert transaction costs by reducing tensions, promote social equity, economic efficiency, and ecological sustainability.

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