A notice of meeting published by the EU Council on 24 July 2026 convenes an informal videoconference of the Working Party on International Environment Issues (Desertification) on 29 July 2026 to coordinate EU preparations for the UNCCD COP17 in August 2026. The meeting aims to finalise EU position papers, discuss a draft political declaration, and arrange logistical and outreach activities to ensure a unified EU stance at the conference.
The videoconference, organised under the current Council Presidency, will address several key items. Members will discuss the draft political declaration for COP17 as part of the second step of the Non-Binding Instrument procedure. An update from the informal risk and scenario planning working group will be presented, alongside organisational matters from the UNCCD Secretariat and the Presidency. The meeting will also review the state of play, timelines, and content of draft EU and Member State position papers for COP17. Practical arrangements such as logistics and participation will be covered, and pre-COP outreach updates will be provided by the Presidency, the European Commission, and Member States.
No prior coverage of this file exists in the last 180 days, making this the first recorded EU coordination step for COP17. The meeting is expected to strengthen EU coherence and collective bargaining power at the conference. Early discussion of risk scenarios could help the EU proactively address negotiation challenges. The alignment of EU positions with broader development and environmental policies, including those related to ACP and RELEX, will also be ensured. Effective EU-led outreach to other parties may shape the broader COP17 agenda.
The document does not specify the exact date of COP17 in August 2026, nor does it indicate whether the videoconference will result in formal decisions. The outcome of the meeting will feed into the EU's final negotiating mandate for the conference.