The UNCCD COP16 in Riyadh highlighted the urgent need to combat desertification, which affects 40% of the planet's land, exacerbating food insecurity and poverty. Discussions emphasized the importance of agroecology, multifunctional landscapes, and pastoralism for land restoration and addressing global crises such as climate change. The debate on "land sparing" (separating conservation from agriculture) versus "land sharing" (integrating conservation into shared landscapes) highlighted the benefits of sustainable agriculture and land restoration for local communities. Afforestation, as a key tool in the fight against land degradation and climate change, was also emphasized, particularly within the framework of the Great Green Wall in Africa. Pastoralism, often seen as a driver of degradation, plays a crucial role in the sustainable management of rangelands. Involving herders in land restoration is essential for effective resource management. COP16 also highlighted the importance of smallholder farmers, supporting their transition to resilient and sustainable agricultural systems.