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.

Background

The forced relocation of peasants onto marginal lands gained international attention in the mid-20th century, as post-colonial land reforms and large-scale development projects displaced rural populations. Reports from organizations such as the FAO and World Bank in the 1970s highlighted the adverse impacts on food security and livelihoods. Subsequent research documented recurring patterns in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, deepening global understanding of the long-term social and environmental consequences of such relocations.

Incidence

Forced relocation of peasants onto marginal lands has occurred on a significant scale in various regions, particularly in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Millions have been displaced from fertile areas due to infrastructure projects, land grabs, or government resettlement schemes, often resulting in diminished agricultural productivity, food insecurity, and increased poverty. The phenomenon persists as a major driver of rural hardship and environmental degradation worldwide.
In 2021, in Ethiopia’s Benishangul-Gumuz region, thousands of smallholder farmers were forcibly relocated to less arable land as part of state-led development initiatives. Many reported loss of livelihoods and inadequate support in their new settlements.

Claim

The forced relocation of peasants onto marginal lands is a grave injustice that devastates lives and communities. It strips people of their ancestral homes, disrupts food security, and pushes vulnerable families into poverty and environmental hardship. This practice is not only morally indefensible but also undermines sustainable development. Addressing this urgent problem is essential for protecting human rights, preserving livelihoods, and ensuring a just and equitable future for all.