This online course equips professionals and decision-makers with the knowledge and tools to transition from hazard-focused to risk-based drought management. Designed for water resource managers, policymakers, disaster risk reduction and climate change specialists, academics, researchers, and members of the UNCCD and IDMP communities, the course addresses the pressing challenges in drought risk assessment.
Participants will explore strategies for overcoming barriers such as limited access to socio-economic, environmental, and sectoral drought impact data, and learn how to apply robust assessment methodologies. The course emphasizes the interconnected nature of drought’s impacts across agriculture, water resources, public health, and other sectors, fostering a multidisciplinary and coordinated approach. Through case studies, practical applications, and interactive learning modules, learners will gain the skills needed to conduct comprehensive drought risk and impact assessments and to design informed, effective responses.
Key learning objectives:
- Develop a clear understanding of drought, its distinction from water scarcity and aridity, and the key components of drought risk: hazard, exposure, and vulnerability.
- Learn methodologies, tools, and key steps for conducting drought risk assessments, integrating data, and incorporating climate change projections to support decision-making.
- Understand how drought affects multiple sectors, recognize cascading and compound effects, and assess economic, social, health, and environmental consequences.
- Gain skills in drought impact monitoring, impact-based forecasting, and integrating risk assessments into early warning systems, policy planning, and global reporting frameworks.
