Armenia’s forests face significant challenges from the impacts of climate change, while rural communities often depend on them for fuelwood. In a move towards forest resilience and climate action, the UN marked its 77 years presence in the country with creation of UN Armenia Forest. In collaboration with “My Forest Armenia”, the UN team planted 18,000 new trees in the Lori region of Armenia. “The group was fascinating” – Arpine from “My Forest Armenia” refers to UN Armenia team, “It is vital for a large organization like the UN to send a signal that afforestation is vital for our planet, our country.” Going forward, the UN will leverage this initiative as a platform for broader environmental advocacy and community engagement.

The UN’s investment in Armenia’s forests is a clear and strategic choice. Our allocation of over 18 million USD in sustainable forest management is another demonstration of our commitment in the area. Our particular focus in 2022 has been on strengthening the country’s national capacities for forest monitoring and assessment which has led to the development of the National Forest Monitoring and Assessment (NFMA) strategy.