Land lies at the heart of people’s livelihoods, identity and security.

Secure land tenure is fundamental to inclusive and sustainable growth, while the denial of it — resulting in dispossession and impoverishment — remains a major driver of instability and conflict.

Advancing inclusive, people-centred land governance is therefore essential not only for promoting economic development but also for reducing fragility and sustaining peace.

Drawing on IDLO’s programmatic experience, research, and expert consultation, this policy brief demonstrates how the rule of law can support a people-centred approach to land governance to build lasting peace, promote inclusive growth and protect the most vulnerable.

It offers practical entry points and solutions, such as reforming land laws and policies, aligning formal and informal justice systems, and embracing digitization, to strengthen tenure security, transparency and accountability.

By promoting trust, stability and resilience, these recommendations offer a pathway to a more just, peaceful and sustainable future for all.