Land Tenure in Asia and the Pacific: Challenges, Opportunities and Way Forward

Abstract

This Publication presents the findings of a review of land tenure security issues in fifteen (15) selected countries across Asia and the Pacific region. It aims to highlight the major land issues, challenges and opportunities as the basis for future decisions about partnerships and engagement in the land sector at sub-regional and country level. The findings are based on an extensive literature review, interviews, a questionnaire, validation at multi-stakeholder meetings, and peer review. It is aimed at a general audience involved in policy and decision-making in the land sector, as well as the broader development sector. Despite the diversity of the region, six issues emerged as the key land tenure security issues for most countries and most regions. These were: (i) changing rural populations, (ii) women's access to land, (iii) rapid urbanization and urban growth, (iv) Indigenous Peoples tenure security, (v) climate change and natural disasters, (vi) and as Islamic tenures and principles.