The lack of clarity and recognition of community-level land and resource rights across the developing world has become a global crisis" undermining progress on social and economic development" human rights" peace" food security" environmental conservation" and our ability to confront and adapt to climate change. Ownership of up to one-half of the rural" forest and dryland areas of the world is contested" directly affecting the lives and livelihoods of over two billion people. These lands" which contain the soil" water" carbon" and mineral resources that the future of all humanity depends upon" are the primary targets of the rapidly expanding investments in industrial agribusiness" mining" oil and gas" and hydro-electric production.   

This international conference in the beautiful alpine town of Interlaken will bring together the wide persity of stakeholders -- governments" local communities" Indigenous Peoples' organizations" private investors" food and resource companies" and conservation organizations -- that have a direct" common" and urgent interest in clarifying and securing the ownership of these lands and resources. Together" these leaders will share experiences on leading strategies to recognize and secure local land rights" including mapping and other technical interventions" legal and policy reforms" international standards and accountability" and innovative financial mechanisms to support real action and progress. The conference will aim to increase the profile and prioritization of community land rights as a global concern" catalyze new ideas and alliances" and secure commitments to take these strategies forward in coming months and years.F

For more details" please visit the Conference Website.