Near East Forestry and Range Commission to meet in Jeddah

Countries will discuss key issues affecting forests and rangelands in the Near East this week as the 27th session of the Near East Forestry and Range Commission of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) meets in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Forests in the region occupy only 2.5 percent of total land area but play an essential role in biodiversity conservation, protecting watersheds, and providing resources such as non-wood forest products. However, these forests are increasingly under threat from deforestation, land degradation and the impacts of climate change. 

Of the world’s 5.3 billion hectares of rangelands, 303 million hectares are found in the Near East region, and in some countries – such as Iraq, Jordan and the Syrian Arab Republic – they cover 80 percent of land, supporting a vital livestock economy that contributes between 40 and 80 percent of agricultural gross domestic product.

“This session is an opportunity to develop cutting-edge approaches and integrated solutions that can unlock the full potential of forests and rangelands to combat climate impacts, enhance forest and rangeland-based food systems, and support inclusive rural development,” said Fidaa Haddad, Secretary of the Near East Forestry and Range Commission.

Wide-ranging agenda

The 27th session will explore linkages between forestry and other sectors such as agriculture and fisheries, integrated land restoration frameworks that contribute to the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, and the upcoming International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026.

There will also be discussions on solutions to drought and desertification, with a particular focus on forest fires, invasive species, and green cities. Technological transformation, including the application of artificial intelligence and big data to support climate-resilient land systems, will be on the agenda.

The session will also discuss the progress of recommendations made at the 26th Session two years ago, and updates on global processes and initiatives relevant to the Commission.

A week of forestry events

This year’s session will run in parallel with the 6th Near East Forestry Week, a dynamic regional forum designed to engage stakeholders through technical side events, youth-led activities, innovation showcases, and cross-sectoral dialogue focused on accelerating forest and rangeland solutions in the region.  

The agenda will also highlight land restoration as a key priority for sustainable development, with dedicated discussions on scaling up restoration initiatives and mobilizing partnerships and financing opportunities. 

A dedicated virtual ‘Youth Day’, preceding the session, will mark the 70th anniversary of the commission this year with young leaders showcasing solutions, exchanging ideas, and contributing to shaping the region’s green future. The day will conclude for the first time with the presentation of a collective recommendation from young participants to the commission.

The 27th Session’s opening ceremony is organized in collaboration with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification.

About the Near East Forest and Range Commission

The Near East Forest and Range Commission was established in 1953, with the first session held in 1955, and is one of six regional forestry commissions created by FAO to serve as a neutral forum where member countries can discuss vital policy issues impacting the forestry and range sector.

It convenes every two years, offering member countries and partners the opportunity to align strategies, review progress, and shape regional positions on forestry and rangeland priorities within the global development agenda.