Caribbean Land Rush: Foreign Investors, Disasters, and Unequal Development

Land grabs in the Caribbean, often linked to disaster capitalism, involve the acquisition of land by foreign investors or corporations with the cooperation of state representatives following natural disasters or economic crises.

These investors exploit vulnerable situations to secure land for resource extraction, tourism development, or large-scale agriculture, often disregarding local communities’ rights and environmental concerns.

The phenomenon intensifies social inequality, displaces communities, and undermines food security. Disaster capitalism fuels this process, as governments may prioritize attracting foreign investment over protecting citizens’ interests.

Additionally, lax regulations and corruption facilitate land grabs, perpetuating a cycle of exploitation and disenfranchisement in the region. Land grabs in this vein are one of the most common disaster capitalism phenomena impacting SCT’s partners as seen in Barbuda, Grenada, Colombia, Puerto Rico, and Haiti, among others.

Get Connected

In the tumultuous aftermath of disasters, it is easy to feel isolated and alone, but you are not.

We, a network of Caribbean-wide community organizers who stand in solidarity with those affected the twin threats of the climate crises and disaster capitalism, a phenomenon that exacerbates the suffering of vulnerable communities.

We want you to know that your stories matter. We are here to listen, to support, and to amplify your voices.

We believe that together, we can challenge the forces of disaster capitalism and advocate for more sustainable, inclusive and equitable decision-making.

Join us in solidarity. Share your experiences and let’s build strong communities that thrive together.

Offer Suppport

As the wider world braces for the climate change, Caribbean communities are already struggling with its effects. Small local communities, small scale farmers and coastal communities are disproportionately affected. Political decisions, power dynamics and laws often compound the catastrophes and silence bottom up solutions.

There are ways in which you can help.

Responses

Barbuda

Belize

Cayman Islands

Colombia

Grenada

Haiti

Puerto Rico

Challenges

Barbuda

Belize

Cayman Islands

Colombia

Grenada

Haiti

Jamaica

Puerto Rico

Partners

Legal Associates

Institutional Support