Beirut, 19 April 2018 (Communication and Information Unit) – A two-day regional workshop was recently organized to build the capacities of members of the UN-ESCWA Sub-Committee on the implementation of SDG 5, and to provide them with best practices on the preparation of Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) which are presented annually at the United Nations High Level Political Forum in New York.
 

A new study on prospects for enhancing food security in the Arab region was launched today at the UN House in Beirut, providing projections on how the food and agriculture situation could look in 2030 based on current trends.

Progress in sustainable energy lies at the heart of socioeconomic growth and sustainable development across the Arab region. Ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all (Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7)) is a key condition for reducing inequalities, poverty eradication, advances in health and education, sustainable economic growth, and the principle of “leaving no one behind”, in addition to climate action. Mainstreaming sustainable energy also presents significant opportunities for achieving a greater gender balance in the Arab region, including through improved energy access for women, access to medical services and education, and job opportunities.

The Arab region is one of the world's most arid regions. They are subject to significant changes in rainfall rates from year to year, which is clearly reflected in the scarcity of water resources. Scientific research confirmed that the whole region will be exposed to severe climate changes, either from low rainfall or from high temperatures and a clear increase in the frequency of cycles of drought. These factors adversely affect agricultural productivity for rainfed and, to some extent, irrigated crops.