Rights from the Start: Why Community Land Tenure Matters to Mitigation Outcomes

The event highlighted the critical role of community land tenure in achieving effective climate mitigation. Through an initial presentation, the link between secure land rights and successful climate action was established, emphasizing how tenure rights can act as a catalyst for community-driven carbon and mitigation initiatives. A roundtable discussion followed, engaging a diverse panel of experts from various global institutions. The discussion centered around the necessity of securing tenure rights for Indigenous Peoples and local communities to ensure equitable access and benefits from carbon projects. The panelists examined whether tenure rights serve as a foundational element for effective mitigation strategies, addressing the nuances of how gender intersects with land security and environmental outcomes. They explored the implications of including both men and women from Indigenous and local communities in mitigation efforts, recognizing that equitable land rights contribute to broader climate goals. Specific case studies and experiences were shared, shedding light on how secure tenure facilitates not only environmental stewardship but also empowers local populations to actively participate in mitigation strategies. The event underscored the consensus that tenure rights are not just supportive but essential for the success of climate interventions, especially in regions where local and Indigenous knowledge drives sustainable land management. This dialogue provided actionable insights into how tenure rights can be incorporated into global mitigation frameworks, reinforcing that a rights-based approach is a prerequisite for achieving long-term climate resilience and justice.


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