Forced relocation of peasants onto marginal lands

Nature

Peasants have been forced off their lands by government development projects, such as major dams, by colonization, by government collectivization or compulsory acquisition of land for various purposes, by the privatization of public land, by commercial landholders who change land use practices to make them incompatible for subsistence activities (e.g. clearance of forests), or for a variety of other reasons. Usually the only unallocated land onto which they can move is marginal for primary production (steep slopes, semi-arid lands etc.) and can be rapidly degraded.

Incidence

The forced relocation of peasants onto marginal lands is a significant issue affecting millions globally, particularly in regions facing agricultural expansion, urbanization, or environmental degradation. In countries like Brazil, India, and Ethiopia, large-scale land acquisitions and government policies have displaced rural communities, pushing them into less fertile areas. Studies indicate that over 50 million people have been affected by such relocations, often resulting in diminished agricultural productivity and increased poverty levels among displaced populations.
A notable instance occurred in 2010 in the state of Odisha, India, where the government forcibly relocated over 1,000 families from fertile agricultural land to marginal lands to facilitate industrial development. This relocation led to severe food insecurity and loss of livelihoods for the affected communities, highlighting the adverse impacts of such policies on rural populations.

Claim

The forced relocation of peasants onto marginal lands is a grave injustice that exacerbates poverty, disrupts communities, and threatens food security. Displacing vulnerable populations strips them of their livelihoods and cultural heritage, pushing them into environments ill-suited for sustainable agriculture. This practice not only violates human rights but also undermines social stability and environmental sustainability. We must urgently address this critical issue to protect the dignity and well-being of those affected and ensure a just future for all.