Desertification: a general review

This review paper provides explanation and global assessment of desertification as it menaces the world drylands. It shows the differences between drought (a natural hazard) and desertification (degradation of land resources), and quotes an example of management of drought (Syria case study) and an example of management of desertification (case study of U.S.A. drylands). It reviews actions of the world community led by UN 1972–92 in response to droughts and famines that menaced the continent of Africa. This included holding the UN Conference on Desertification 1977, the elaboration of a UN-endorsed plan of action to combat desertification and attempts — with limited success — at its implementation. World action in 1992 (UNCED) and in subsequent years (elaboration of an international convention on desertification June 1994 is described.