Mongolia

Mongolia is currently experiencing a Dzud which is a multilayer natural disaster comprising the summer drought resulting in the inadequate pasture and production of hay followed by severe winter conditions involving a heavy snow cover, strong winds, and lower-than-normal temperatures. The scenario prevents livestock from accessing pasture or receiving adequate hay and fodder, resulting in livestock mortality especially in steppes – dry and vast grasslands devoid of trees and with little diversity in vegetation. As at 1 February 2023, around 70% of Mongolia’s landmass were facing a high or extreme Dzud situation, affecting the livelihoods of around 191,000 herder households.

Herders comprise 80% of households in rural Mongolia and are at high risk of losing their livelihoods during the Dzud period. The usual peak period for livestock mortality is from February–April. As at 16 February, prolonged malnutrition and cold stress resulting from the current Dzud have killed 417,000 livestock.

An estimated 213,000 people in 18 provinces need humanitarian assistance. An estimated 53,000 vulnerable people, including children, need immediate and life-saving assistance.

The frequency and severity of the Dzud have been increasing in recent years, and climate change is considered a major driver of the phenomenon. (OCHA 18/01/2023, OCHA 06/03/2023, WB et al. 06/2012, Caritas accessed 11/04/2023, NatGeo accessed 11/04/2023)