2026 Declared as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists

The United Nations has officially recognized the year 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists. This initiative aims to highlight the significance of rangelands, which constitute over half of the earth’s land surface, and to acknowledge the pastoral communities whose livelihoods depend on these vital resources.

Purpose of the Declaration

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations plans to use this declaration to bolster advocacy for responsible investments and tailored policies aimed at enhancing the pastoral sector on a global scale.

“The initiative emphasizes the need for policies that secure pastoralists’ access to land and natural resources, support mobility, promote inclusive governance, and encourage adequate investments in rangeland management, ecosystem restoration, animal health services, and equitable value chains,” stated the FAO website.

Furthermore, the Year aims to foster inclusive policy dialogue and collaborative efforts to enhance pastoralist livelihoods and promote sustainable rangeland management.

Global Support for IYRP

The International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists has gained support from 102 countries, including Australia. Notably, the Consolidated Pastoral Company (CPC) oversees 5.5 million hectares of rangelands across 11 stations in Australia.

CPC CEO Troy Setter expressed, “I love working across our rangelands because I get to see firsthand how Australia’s rangelands provide not only jobs but also high-quality food for people worldwide.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy soil for economic, environmental, and social sustainability.

Championing Rangelands

As part of the IYRP initiative, individuals living and working in the rangelands are encouraged to share their stories using the hashtag #IYRP2026.

Agricultural scientist David Phelps called it a unique opportunity to advocate for investment in Australia’s diverse outback regions. He noted, “Rangelands cover 81 percent of Australia, ranging from arid deserts to tropical savannas, creating strong connections between the land and multi-generational family-run farming businesses.”

Mr. Phelps further highlighted the integral role of Aboriginal people in the livestock industry, noting that nearly 50% of Australia’s rangelands are now under forms of Aboriginal title or management. “We should be properly celebrating and rewarding this contribution,” he insisted.

In conclusion, this year of international recognition serves as a call to action for increased investment in understanding and managing rangelands, the establishment of a coordinated national rangeland strategy, and support for collaboration among stakeholders.