The drylands of tomorrow: Pathways to prosperity, peace and resilience

This report takes stock of the key challenges and opportunities facing pastoralism and agriculture in the drylands today.

Abstract

This report focuses on themes of peace, prosperity and resilience, it explores both challenges to and factors enabling progress for those making their way in the drylands. Rather than offering operational guidance, it aims to challenge prevailing assumptions and propose alternative, grounded narratives that can inform strategic thinking. It offers a realistic picture of what does and does not work, setting out implications for decision-makers in private and public sectors.

This work is part of the Supporting Pastoralism and Agriculture in Recurrent and Protracted Crises  (SPARC) programme.

Citation

Derbyshire S and others. ‘The drylands of tomorrow: Pathways to prosperity, peace and resilience’ Synthesis Report London, UK: SPARC, 2025

The drylands of tomorrow: Pathways to prosperity, peace and resilience

Updates to this page

Published 6 February 2026