This study includes global changes that have led to the emergence of a number of new concepts, including human development and economic, social, political, cultural and civil rights.

Of all natural hazards, drought affects the greatest number of people globally, with devastating impact. The vulnerability of communities to drought is dependent on a host of physical, social, environmental and  economic characteristics.

ESCWA prepared a set of handbooks for the following six sectors: energy, water, environment, agriculture, small and medium-sized enterprises and technology, each addressing sustainable development indicators in the ESCWA region in general and in each of the 13 ESCWA member countries in particul