Side event co-convened by the International Development Law Organization, Mongolian NGO Steps Without Borders, and the University of Oxford School of Geography and the Environment on the occasion of the UNCCD COP17.
Saturday, 22 August 2026
10:30–12:00 (UTC+08:00)
Room MET-06
As mining and renewable energy projects expand, balancing economic development with the protection of pastoralist livelihoods, land rights and natural resources is becoming increasingly important. These changes can place pressure on traditional herder lands, water resources and migration routes, underscoring the need for inclusive planning and effective governance. This side event will convene policymakers, development partners, civil society and private sector actors to examine how Social Impact Assessment (SIA) can strengthen inclusive governance, protect pastoralist communities and support sustainable land management in Mongolia and beyond. SIA may be defined as the process of assessing and managing the social consequences arising from development projects.
The discussion will highlight how robust SIA policy can help identify and mitigate social and environmental risks, prevent displacement, and ensure meaningful participation of nomadic herders and other pastoralists throughout development project cycles. Through practical examples and multi-stakeholder dialogue, this event will identify pathways to strengthen inclusive governance, improve accountability and promote responsible investment that safeguards pastoral livelihoods and helps to preserve ecosystems.
Speakers
- Adilbish Adiyajav, Secretary of the National Committee on Gender Equality and Head of the National Committee on Gender Equality Secretariat
- Dr. Ariell Ahearn, Departmental Lecturer in Human Geography, University of Oxford, School of Geography and the Environment (contributor and moderator)
- Charles Bolland, Country Manager, IDLO Mongolia
- Ariunaa Chuluunbaatar, Senior Officer of Research and Analysis Department, National Human Rights Commission of Mongolia
- Bum-Ochir Dulam, Member of Parliament of Mongolia
- Ganbayasgakh Geleg, National Gender Expert
- Bayarsaikhan Namsrai, Head, Steps without Borders NGO
- Boldbaatar Nyamsuren, Herder from Dalanjargalan soum, Dornogovi Aimag
- Michael Warren, Customary and Informal Justice Advisor, IDLO
- Khongorzul Yondonjamts, Herder from Gurvansaikhan Soum, Dundgovi Aimag
- TBC, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development