Developing pastoral territories in the Sahel and the Mediterranean regions: what initiatives address societal, economic, and climatic constraints? This was the theme of our study day held on June 25, 2025. These proceedings capture the presentations and discussions from that event.
Pastoralism—as both a way of life and a mode of production—faces a complex array of constraints, including climate change, insecurity, land-use pressure, and political and social shifts. It sparks significant public debate across sub-Saharan Africa, the Mediterranean countries, and Europe regarding issues such as greenhouse gas emissions, desertification, "buying local," animal welfare, the tension between pastoralism and conservation/protected areas, and the future of the herding profession. Furthermore, pastoral systems are often still perceived as "traditional" or "archaic," despite demonstrating remarkable resilience; their vitality stems largely from the adaptive capacity of pastoral societies and the pivotal role they play in the economic development of transhumance territories.
Faced with these societal, economic, and climatic constraints, how can stakeholders and local communities in pastoral areas adapt to become even greater drivers of development in their regions—particularly in areas where pastoral systems offer the only viable form of land use? What are the implications for public policy across these diverse sub-Saharan and Mediterranean contexts?
To provide insights and potential solutions, Iram and its partners sought to examine the similarities and unique characteristics of adaptation initiatives undertaken by pastoral societies. Key areas of focus included securing access to resources and land, fostering economic development in pastoral and agro-pastoral territories, and mobilizing pastoral youth. What lessons can be learned? What avenues for action-research and innovation should be explored, depending on the specific context?
These proceedings document the presentations and discussions from the study day. They were drafted by the Iram organizing team, based on preparatory documents produced by the day's speakers.