This study aimed to pilot an innovative land survey to provide quantitative data regarding landrelated issues in Timor-Leste, in order to support the Timorese government and parliament in developing evidence-based land policies and legislation, as well as more informed advocacy of civil society.

Large-scale land acquisitions by investors, which are often called ‘land grabs’ (see next section for de nition), can deprive rural women and communities of their livelihoods and land, increasing their food insecurity.

This is the first of a series of consultations on the human rights challenges and dilemmas involved in the
acquisition and use of land – held individually or collectively - for private or state-owned business and

This background briefing reports on a study of land access
for returnees in Rwanda, and the impacts of land access
policies in the post-conflict period. It also seeks to
understand better the roles international humanitarian