LAC: Community Participation for Sustainable Land Governance – Experiences with Indigenous Peoples

The Regional Operational Workshop in Latin America and the Caribbean highlighted the significance of community participation in sustainable land governance, with a particular focus on the involvement of indigenous peoples. The final thematic session showcased diverse experiences aimed at enhancing community land management. Presentations included best practices and lessons from the Regional Learning Cycle, illustrating effective strategies for engaging communities. In Colombia, the discussion centered on the Free and Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) process, a critical step for implementing a multipurpose cadaster in indigenous territories. Another presentation emphasized the role of public hearings in resolving indigenous land conflicts, highlighting how judicial processes can support governance. The session also examined challenges and opportunities in indigenous land titling, with case studies from Guatemala and Peru reflecting on international court rulings and their impact on land rights. These presentations underscored the importance of respecting indigenous knowledge, ensuring transparent processes, and addressing historical injustices to achieve sustainable land governance. The workshop reinforced the idea that meaningful participation and legal frameworks are essential for equitable and inclusive land administration in the region.


This resource has been made available by the organizers of the World Bank Land Conference under the following disclaimer.