Ireland played a central role in global environmental diplomacy as COP17 concluded in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Acting as coordinator for the European Union during its 2026 Council Presidency, Ireland helped Member States and the European Commission maintain a united position on drought, desertification and land degradation.
COP17 Highlights Ireland’s EU Presidency Role
Minister of State Timmy Dooley welcomed the outcome of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification conference, held from 17 to 28 August 2026. The two-week summit was the first major environmental COP during Ireland’s current Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Irish officials coordinated discussions across the EU, supporting common positions during complex negotiations. The work involved close engagement with national representatives and the European Commission on issues affecting land, biodiversity and climate resilience.
Agreement Reached on UNCCD Budget
One of the key outcomes was agreement on the Convention’s budget. Countries also agreed to continue developing international action on proactive drought management, an increasingly important issue for communities, agriculture and ecosystems worldwide.
Minister Dooley said the conference made progress but acknowledged that further negotiations would be required. Ireland and the EU are expected to continue promoting practical measures that improve drought preparedness and strengthen international cooperation.
Areas where further progress is needed
- Gender equality in environmental decision-making
- Participation by stakeholders and affected communities
- Cooperation between the Rio Conventions covering land, climate and biodiversity
- Long-term international approaches to drought resilience
Ireland’s Presidency Continues Through December
Ireland holds the Presidency of the Council of the EU from 1 July to 31 December 2026. During this period, it is responsible for helping steer negotiations and facilitate agreement among Member States on legislation and policy affecting approximately 450 million people.
The Presidency comes as the EU faces pressure from geopolitical instability, migration concerns, competitiveness challenges and the need to meet ambitious climate targets. Ireland’s environmental diplomacy at COP17 forms part of that wider responsibility.
The Irish Presidency is organised around three broad pillars: competitiveness, values and security. Its slogan, “Ní neart go cur le chéile”, translates as “Strength with unity”, reflecting the emphasis on cooperation.
Why COP17 matters to Ireland
Although the conference focused on a global convention, its agenda has direct relevance to Ireland. Drought, soil health, sustainable farming and land restoration influence food production, biodiversity and climate adaptation. Government bodies including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Teagasc and the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment contribute to Ireland’s broader environmental policy work.
What Happens Before COP18?
The EU said it would continue working on issues that did not receive the desired level of progress at COP17, including stronger links between international environmental agreements. The next phase will require sustained cooperation between governments, scientists, civil society and communities affected by drought and land degradation.
Key takeaway: COP17 gave Ireland an important opportunity to demonstrate leadership during its EU Presidency, while securing agreement on the UNCCD budget and keeping drought resilience at the centre of international environmental discussions.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
