Expanding Community Rights Over Natural Resources
Overview
The goal of this work is to improve the livelihood of rural poor through increased access to, and decision making on, natural resources.
The Challenge
Many of the world's poorest families live in rural areas that are not conducive to commercial agriculture. These households depend heavily on forests, grasslands, marginal farmland and other natural resources for their livelihoods.
In developing countries, these communities have gained ownership rights or secure access to nearly 25 percent of the total forest area. However, their access is often restricted by private interests and the failure of governments to develop policies that address their unique needs and potential.
Indigenous peoples, ethnic minorities and women are disproportionately affected by these restrictions.
What We're Doing
We support the development of improved natural resource policies and programs that offer poor and marginalized groups more access and ownership over natural resources, along with greater influence in decision making on land-use planning and development.
To advance these goals, we partner at the global, national and regional levels with:
- Think tanks
- Grassroots organizations
- Governments
- Advocacy groups
- Universities
- Private companies
Read the Expanding Community Rights Over Natural Resources initiative Strategy (PDF).
Learn more about how our strategies and approaches shape our grant making.
From the Newsroom
- Land Rights: A Global Issue The foundation advocates for the legal empowerment of rural communities
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- In Guatemala, Strengthening Communities and the Economy Ford grantee is recognized for contributing to the country’s economic development
Regions
Team
What We're Following
- The International Association for the Study of the Commons A key resource for discussion and analysis of community property, its management, and its contribution to sustainable development
- Mexico's Forest Dwellers Carve Out a Future in Trees Agence France Presse video coverage of community forestry in Mexico
- Marketplace Radio Report Feature on Brazil's forest reserves and the communities that rely on them
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