


This article of the draft Convention contains two paragraphs on objectives. A number of developed countries asserted that this article has to be brief, deal with the specific subject of the Convention, and not address the issues of poverty eradication, food and energy security, economic growth and employment, and security and stability of financial resources. The Africans stated that these socio-economic issues should be essential objectives of the Convention. The revised text reads as follows: "The objective of this Convention is to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought in countries experiencing serious drought and/or desertification, particularly in Africa, through effective action at all levels supported by international cooperation [and partnership arrangements] in the framework of an integrated approach, which is consistent with Agenda 21 with a view to contributing to the achievement of sustainable development in affected areas."

"Achieving this objective shall involve long-term integrated strategies which focus simultaneously in affected and threatened areas, on improved productivity of lands, rehabilitation, conservation and sustainable management of land and water resources, leading to improved living conditions, particularly at the community level."