Association for Human Integrated Massive Social Action (AHIMSA) is pleased to announce that it has been granted Observer Status with the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).

The decision was taken by the Seventeenth Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the UNCCD, recognizing AHIMSA as an accredited civil society observer organization within the Convention process.

The official communication from the UNCCD Secretariat, dated 18 September 2026, confirms that AHIMSA’s accreditation is valid for all sessions of the Conference of the Parties and its Subsidiary Bodies. As an accredited observer, AHIMSA will automatically receive official invitations to attend relevant sessions of the COP and its Subsidiary Bodies.

Strengthening Global Engagement

This accreditation marks an important milestone in AHIMSA’s journey toward strengthening collaboration between grassroots communities, civil society organizations and international institutions.

Through its observer status, AHIMSA will have opportunities to engage with the UNCCD process and contribute perspectives and experiences relevant to the Convention, particularly in areas connected with:

* Sustainable land management and restoration
* Combating desertification and land degradation
* Drought resilience
* Environmental sustainability
* Community participation and grassroots initiatives
* Inclusive approaches to sustainable development

AHIMSA looks forward to using this opportunity to share community-level experiences and learn from international efforts addressing some of the world’s most pressing environmental and development challenges.

From Community Action to Global Dialogue

The recognition by the UNCCD provides AHIMSA with a valuable platform to connect local and community-led initiatives with global dialogue on land, environment and sustainable development.

AHIMSA expresses its sincere appreciation to the UNCCD Secretariat for the accreditation and looks forward to constructive participation in the Convention process and meaningful collaboration with governments, civil society organizations, institutions and communities around the world.

AHIMSA remains committed to advancing human-centred, inclusive and sustainable action for resilient communities and a healthier planet.