Reductions in Access to Arable Land

Displacement of farmers in the Caribbean have exacerbated food insecurity in the region. Land prioritized for resource extraction (often by foreign investors), tourism, and other forms of ‘development’, disregarding local rights and environmental concerns. This displaces communities reliant on farming and undermines domestic food production, increasing dependence on costly imports. In Jamaica, farmers face displacement for housing projects despite scarce arable land. Haiti’s food crisis is compounded by foreign land acquisitions displacing peasants and enabling environmental degradation. Protecting food security requires safeguarding land rights, promoting sustainable agriculture, and ensuring accountability for all investments.

In the News

Carribbean Land Rush: Foreign Investors, Disasters, and Unequal Development pen_spark

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

Read MoreMarch 8, 2024

Displacement of the Bernard Lodge Farmers

The Bernard Lodge area, once home to sugar plantations, in recent history has been a source of livelihood for hundreds of Jamaican farmers , on island of only 19% arable land. Since January 2021, the government of Jamaica has begun the displacement of the farmers in favor of a project to convert agricultural land to housing … Continue reading "Displacement of...

Read MoreDecember 1, 2023

Haitian Food Insecurity Fueled by Foreign Land Grabs

Haiti, a nation renowned for its rich cultural heritage and captivating natural beauty, is grappling with a stark and persistent challenge: food insecurity. Amidst this crisis lies a complex interplay of factors, one of which stands out as a significant contributor: foreign land grabs. The acquisition of fertile Haitian lands by foreign entities, often at … Continue reading "Haitian Food...

Read MoreNovember 24, 2023

Tet Kole Haiti Interview 2023

In this podcast episode we highlight our partner Tet Kole, a Haitian peasant movement which fights for land rights, food sovereignty, and resources for small farmers. They struggle with limited government support and disasters. External aid groups prioritize handouts over helping Haitians grow their own food. Tet Kole seeks training, collaboration, and long-term projects to empower Haitian peasants. Many resources...

Read MoreSeptember 12, 2023