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Paper short abstract:

This paper explores key assumptions about localized land registration: that it helps better protect land rights, helps marginalized groups, and prevents disputes. Findings from Burundi and the DRC demonstrate that these assumptions need to be nuanced, notably that LLR will contribute to peace.

Paper long abstract:

The last two decades have seen a variety of efforts to localize land tenure registration (LLR) in Sub-Saharan Africa, specifically in conflict-affected settings. Approaches for LLR tend to be participatory often include collaboration or shared responsibilities between the state and customary institutions, and often promote advanced techniques for land recording. This paper explores discourses and practices of localized land tenure registration in Burundi and eastern DR Congo. Rather than demonstrating success or failure, we question whether key assumptions about localized land tenure registration hold in practice, notably the idea that it will contribute to peace. More specifically, we analyse whether localized land tenure 1) will result in a clarification of land rights and thus better protection; 2) will help marginalized groups, notably women; and 3) will prevent disputes. Findings from Burundi and the DRC demonstrate that these assumptions need to be nuanced. Localized land tenure registration is not just a response to tenure insecurity and conflict, but tends to become part of the dynamics that nurture these. Frequently, efforts for transforming land tenure effectively undermine the prerequisites for peace. These findings highlight the risks involved in efforts for transformation, and the need for a reality check of how these efforts work out.

please, notice that this paper is (co-)authored by: An Ansoms, Joël Baraka Akilimali, Emery Mudinga, Camille Munezero, Gemma van der Haar.