Drylands, or ecosystems characterised by a lack of water, cover some 40% of the world’s terrain. Ranging from cultivated lands and grasslands to savannas and deserts, these parched environments support two billion people, 90% of them in developing countries. Half these inhabitants rely directly on dryland ecosystem services for their daily survival, either through rainfed or irrigated farming, or widespread pastoralism. Yet drylands are being degraded and this is threatening the well-being of communities on every continent on Earth. This report highlights the need to include drylands within debates on contemporary global issues. In it, United Nations’ experts present a coherent strategy to address the unique needs of fragile dryland environments and the people they support. The report synthesises findings from extensive consultations involving UN agencies, as well as researchers and practitioners working on dryland and development issues.