Land is a fundamental resource that underpins the jobs, cultures, and economies of people around the world. Approximately 2.5 billion people¡ªone-third of the global population¡ªrely on land, natural resources, and ecosystems for their well-being and livelihoods. Land is the foundation upon which we build our homes, grow our food, and develop our infrastructure.
As the global population continues to grow, the demand for land is reaching unprecedented levels. Rapid urbanization is one of the primary drivers. More people are moving to cities in search of better opportunities, requiring significant amounts of land for housing, commercial spaces, and public infrastructure. The need for agricultural land to feed a growing population is putting further pressure on available land resources.
Despite the critical importance of land, many people around the world¡ª70 percent of the global population¡ªlack secure rights over their land. This means that they do not have legal recognition or protection of their land rights, making them vulnerable to displacement. Secure land tenure is essential for individuals and communities to invest in their land, improve their livelihoods, and achieve economic stability. Without it, they face uncertainty and insecurity that can hinder their development.
Land is also crucial for the development of infrastructure and the achievement of climate commitments. Infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and energy facilities require significant land resources. At the same time, land plays a vital role in climate change mitigation and adaptation, with half of all climate actions under the Paris Agreement relating to land.
In addition, at least half of the transition minerals needed to reach a net zero emissions economy can be found on or near Indigenous Peoples¡¯ lands and territories. Yet, at most half of Indigenous Peoples¡¯ land rights are formally recognized, potentially leading to conflicts and marginalization. Recognizing and protecting Indigenous land rights is not only a matter of justice but also essential for the preservation of biodiversity and sustainable land management practices.
Land is a vital resource that is essential for human well-being, economic development, and environmental sustainability. The unprecedented demand for land, coupled with the lack of global land tenure security and the need for land for infrastructure and climate commitments, presents significant challenges that must be addressed. Achieving land tenure security for all is essential to creating a world free of poverty on a livable planet.
Last Updated: May 01, 2025
