Over the past 20 years, governments have developed both national and international frameworks regarding land policy, particularly in Africa and land tenure regulation. As a result, more than 70 countries have begun implementing land reforms.
The Issue of "Land Insecurity" and Inequality
However, many unresolved issues remain in this area. According to a report compiled by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the global alliance International Land Coalition, and the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD), only 35% of land worldwide has formally documented ownership, possession, or use rights.Moreover, over 1.1 billion people experience "land insecurity," believing that they may lose their property in the coming years.
Land Ownership Structure
The report also indicates that more than 64% of the world's land is legally owned by the state, including land used traditionally with certain rights but without official confirmation of ownership.Individuals, groups, and companies own just over a quarter of all land. Approximately 18% of land, equivalent to 2.4 billion hectares, belongs to private owners and corporations. Additionally, 10% of the largest landowners cultivate nearly 90% of all agricultural land, which constitutes about 37% of the total land area in the world.
However, the ownership status of 10% of the land remains unclear.
Systems of Traditional Land Tenure
The report also details systems of traditional land tenure, which include territories historically used by indigenous peoples, nomads, or local communities for traditional livelihoods.These lands encompass forests, pastures, wetlands, and fishing grounds. The management system, previously considered outdated, is increasingly recognized as important for both people and the planet, especially in the context of biodiversity conservation and combating climate change.
Globally, approximately 4.2 billion hectares of traditional lands have been recorded, accounting for over 32% of all land on Earth (excluding Antarctica).
Photo on the main page is illustrative: https://www.nalog.gov.ru.
