Communal Land Systems

Communities are rediscovering and reaffirming the power of collective land ownership. It affirms a system of belief in which land is viewed not as a commodity to be exploited, but a shared legacy, entrusted to generations. This is the essence of communal land systems, where heritage, ecology, and community well-being intertwine.These systems serve as bulwarks against predatory development. Ancestral wisdom is allowed to guide sustainable practices, protecting sacred sites from profit-driven destruction. But the fight isn’t without its challenges. External forces often seek to fracture these systems, offering individual titles disguised as “progress.” Communities resist, knowing the true cost of such “development” – fractured identities, disrupted ecosystems, and communities displaced.

Communal Land Systems

The Post-Irma Disaster and the Right to Act in Defense of their Territory

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn The Post-Irma Disaster and the Right to Act in Defense of their Territory Land Defenders at Cedar Tree Point. Source: https://www.glanlaw.org/caribbean-landgrabs Save Barbuda Movement A monumental victory for Barbuda and the entire Caribbean fighting U.S. developers in island-wide grab land post-Irma, stands as a demonstration to the indomitable spirit of grassroots initiatives … Continue reading "The Post-Irma...

Read MoreJune 10, 2024

Common Ground: Securing Land Rights and Safeguarding the Earth

Common Ground: Securing Land Rights and Safeguarding the Earth The following is an excerpt from the briefing paper of the same name, by Pearce, F. 2016. Published by International Land Coalition, Oxfam International, and Rights and Resources Initiative [Link to full document] Foreword Insecure land rights are a global crisis – for the millions of … Continue reading "Common Ground:...

Read MoreMarch 8, 2024

Communal Lands: A Model for Sustainable Resource Management and Cultural Identity

Communal Lands: A Model for Sustainable Resource Management and Cultural Identity Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Photo Credit: iStock thePicThing In the Caribbean, communal land systems have been historically utilized by communities to sustainably manage and preserve their natural resources while fostering social connections. These systems often stem from indigenous traditions and have adapted over time to … Continue reading "Communal Lands:...

Read MoreMarch 8, 2024

Land in the Caribbean: Issues of Policy, Administration and Management in the English Speaking Caribbean

Land in the Caribbean: Issues of Policy, Administration and Management in the English Speaking Caribbean The following is an excerpt from the briefing paper of the same name, Editor: Williams, A. 2003. Published by Land Tenure Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA [Link to full document] Critical Issues : Unofficial land tenure systems are as significant as … Continue reading "Land in...

Read MoreDecember 4, 2023

Common Ground: Securing Land Rights and Safeguarding the Earth [Excerpt & Link]

Common Ground: Securing Land Rights and Safeguarding the Earth The following is an excerpt from the briefing paper of the same name, by Pearce, F. 2016. Published by International Land Coalition, Oxfam International, and Rights and Resources Initiative [Link to full document] Foreword Insecure land rights are a global crisis – for the millions of … Continue reading "Common Ground:...

Read MoreDecember 4, 2023

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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.

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