Fuelled by climate change, extreme droughts are becoming more frequent, placing mounting pressure on communities, ecosystems and economies. As impacts intensify across regions and sectors, including in OECD countries, the urgency to build stronger drought resilience has never been greater. How is climate change intensifying the risks and impacts of droughts? What do recent drought episodes reveal about the socio-economic and environmental costs of inaction? And how can countries strengthen their climate adaptation strategies to reduce vulnerability, build resilience and mitigate long-term impacts?

This session launched the new OECD report Global Drought Outlook: Trends, Impacts and Policies to Adapt to a Drier World. The report offers a global assessment of drought trends, drivers and impacts in the context of climate change, and examines how selected policies and practices across sectors can enhance drought resilience. Drawing from both successful adaptation efforts and persistent policy gaps, it provides actionable insights to guide decision-makers and support the efficient use of resources to address this escalating challenge.

The webinar featured a panel of senior policymakers and provided a platform to discuss the OECD’s latest findings and recommendations, as well as to exchange knowledge on drought resilience, policy innovations and opportunities in land and water management to adapt to a drier future.