Tehran - The United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists to highlight the importance of rangelands and pastoral communities in sustainable development; With around 83 million hectares of rangelands and a long tradition of pastoralism and nomadic livelihoods, Iran is expected to play a prominent role in the global initiative.

 

Morteza Khodagholi, Head of the Rangeland Research Department at Iran’s Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, said rangelands cover nearly half of the world’s land surface and support the livelihoods of millions, yet face mounting pressures from degradation, climate change, and land-use conversion, making sustainable management essential.

 

He noted that the designation follows years of scientific and diplomatic efforts, backed by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and aims to raise awareness of the economic, social, and ecological value of rangelands, while promoting innovation and cooperation among pastoral communities.

 

Khodagholi added that Iran’s extensive rangeland resources and research capacity, reflected in more than 1,400 completed projects and 148 ongoing studies, place the country in a strong position to contribute to the goals of the International Year, including improved policies, stronger collaboration, and more sustainable livelihoods for pastoralists.