Recognizing Indigenous lands is important to achieving forest and biodiversity targets and mitigation goals. This is directly acknowledged in initiatives like the Global Biodiversity Framework’s 30x30 Target, Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries (REDD+) and Net Zero by 2050.

However, the actions necessary to achieve these targets can sometimes result in pressure  and infringement on Indigenous and local land tenure systems that are already insecure due to lack of formal recognition and communities’ weak participation in decision-making related to climate initiatives. These pressures are experienced differently by women and men because of social, economic and political dynamics that influence land tenure and community governance systems. Failure to account for gender when implementing climate initiatives can risk eroding the traditional land entitlements of women and trigger additional negative impacts.

Africa is the youngest continent in the world, with a median age of around 20. This rising generation of youth presents an enormous opportunity for socio-economic development. But for Africa’s young people to unlock their full potential, they need full enjoyment of land rights – a cornerstone for economic opportunity and social empowerment.

Land administration has historically focused on economic growth and formalization – now it must evolve to address climate imperatives.

Professor Anju Vali Tikoo, a distinguished academic with a career spanning over three decades, delivered a passionate and incisive keynote at the 8th India Land and Development Conference (ILDC). Her address, a clarion call for gender inclusivity in land governance, explored the intersection of law, policy, and lived realities for women in India. With her deep-rooted knowledge of legal frameworks and her personal experiences, Prof. Tikoo brought to light the systemic barriers that continue to marginalize women in matters of land ownership and decision making.

On November 27, 2024, the Global Donor Working Group on Land convened a pivotal session as part of the Global Donor Platform for Rural Development Annual General Assembly (AGA). Under the theme “Redefining and Enhancing the Quality of Finance for Sustainable Development,” the event focused on optimizing Official Development Assistance (ODA) to address the needs and rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs). The session spotlighted practical approaches to improving the inclusivity, efficiency, and impact of development finance amidst intensifying global crises.

The key takeaways from the World Urban Forum 12, which took place in Egypt between 4-8 November 2024.

As we reflect on our work at the Land Portal Foundation, we are continually inspired by the transformative power of open data, especially in the land sector. Our newly launched Open Data Champions Initiative celebrates  the small but impactful contributions of open data champions worldwide, particularly those in the Global South, who are driving change at the country level and beyond. TheState of Land Information (SOLI) Program underscores our commitment to benchmarking and making land data more accessible and impactful.