Global Efforts and Youth Voices United for Combating Desertification and Drought

On June 17, the Korea Forest Service (KFS), led by Minister LIM Sang-seop, hosted a seminar and an award ceremony for the Youth English Speech Contest under the theme “Restore the Land, Unlock the Opportunities” at the National Assembly Members’ Hall, in commemoration of the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025.

The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought was designated by the United Nations in 1994 to commemorate the adoption of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). The day serves as a global reminder of the severity of desertification and drought and the need for collective action to address these challenges.

The event, co-hosted by Members of the National Assembly JUNG Hee Yong and LEE Wontaeg, aimed to raise public awareness of the importance of desertification and drought prevention and to foster environmental awareness among younger generations.

During the seminar, Minister LIM, Assembly Members JUNG Hee Yong and LEE Wontaeg, the Ambassadors of Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, as well as domestic and international experts, shared progress and policies related to drought prevention and response efforts.

The UNCCD Secretariat also introduced key international initiatives jointly promoted with the Korea Forest Service, including the Greening Drylands Partnership (GDP) and the Peace Forest Initiative (PFI). These initiatives aim to tackle the escalating global challenges of drought and land degradation.

The Youth English Speech Contest, aimed at highlighting the role of young people in desertification prevention and the economic value of forest restoration, recognized nine outstanding students with awards as follows:

Grand Prize (Middle and High School): 1 winner, Minister of the Korea Forest Service Award (KRW 500,000)

Excellence Award (Middle and High School): 1 winner each, UNCCD Executive Secretary’s Award (KRW 400,000 each)

Merit Award (Middle and High School): 3 winners each, Korea Green Ranger President’s Award (KRW 200,000 each)

In total, nine students received certificates and monetary prizes for their efforts and achievements.

Minister LIM stated, “I hope this event will serve as a meaningful opportunity to raise public awareness of the importance of combating desertification and drought, and to nurture future leaders in forest conservation and restoration.”