Media Contact

Jenna DiPaolo
Manager, Communications & Coordination

Email: Jenna DiPaolo
Telephone: +1 202 470 3900 Fax: +1 202 944 3315

Press Room

Press Coverage

Press Releases

Open Thread Plus Africa Land Grab Cartoon

Open Thread Plus Africa Land Grab Cartoon

May 2012

 

Of the 203 million hectares of land deals reported worldwide between 2000 and 2010, two-thirds were in Africa.

Journal LeDroit: Loi forestière 1994 - Processus de relecture en cours

Journal LeDroit: Loi forestière 1994 - Processus de relecture en cours

April 2012

 

Cadre à la cérémonie de remise officielle de la contribution de la coalition RRI Cameroun au processus de la relecture de la loi forestière.

Natural Justice Blog: New Contributions on Forest People's Rights from RRI

Natural Justice Blog: New Contributions on Forest People's Rights from RRI

April 2012

 

Track the ongoing efforts of this legal NGO as we seek to assist communities to engage with legal frameworks to secure environmental and social justice.

Inter Press Service: Brazil is a Model for the Rights of Forest Communities

Inter Press Service: Brazil is a Model for the Rights of Forest Communities

April 2012

 

Brazil is one of the most advanced countries in the world when it comes to legally guaranteeing the rights of forest communities and reducing deforestation, says economist Jeffrey Hatcher in this interview.

Florestas estão longe dos povos

Florestas estão longe dos povos

April 2012

 

ONG americana mostra relação entre fome e falta de acesso à terra

SAPA/AFP - Foreign buying of farms explosive

SAPA/AFP - Foreign buying of farms explosive

March 2012

 

Controversial land acquisitions have been a key factor triggering the civil wars in Sudan, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

Cameroon Tribune - Forestry Governance: Civil Society Proposes Amendments

Cameroon Tribune - Forestry Governance: Civil Society Proposes Amendments

March 2012

 

The Rights Resources Initiative coalition presented its recommendations to Cameroon's Ministry of Forest and Wildlife.

Peace and Conflict Monitor - Africa for Sale: The Land Grab Landmine

Peace and Conflict Monitor - Africa for Sale: The Land Grab Landmine

February 2012

 

A new phenomenon is taking shape across the developing world, threatening to heighten resource-related conflict, particularly in Africa. Referred to as land leasing, land selling or land grabbing, it affects Africa more than any other region, where land is more than a factor of production, but a lifeline to an individual’s wellbeing, the family unit, the community at large and the stability of the state. In this article, Patrick Mugo Mugo exposes the extent of the land grab phenomenon, arguing that while we debate over whether it is land grabbing, leasing or selling, African countries are already stepping on a potential landmine.

Liberia: The Plantation Blues

Liberia: The Plantation Blues

February 2012

 

Residents of the riverside village of Singhiam, a 30-minute drive from Madina through land stripped of forest and farmland, are quick to outline where they want to see action and where they feel the government and the Kuala Lumpur-based Sime Darby Berhad conglomerate have failed. Their main grievance: lost livelihoods.

PolicyMic - Weak Land Rights in Africa Make Way for a New Type of Colonialism

PolicyMic - Weak Land Rights in Africa Make Way for a New Type of Colonialism

February 2012

 

Earlier this month a Reuters article highlighted that lack of land rights on the Africa continent could lead to future conflicts. Prior to colonialism, land rights were dealt within tribes or ethnic groups throughout Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

Yale Environment 360 - Busting the Forest Myths: People as Part of the Solution

Yale Environment 360 - Busting the Forest Myths: People as Part of the Solution

February 2012

 

The long-held contention that rural forest communities are the prime culprits in tropical forest destruction is increasingly being discredited, as evidence mounts that the best way to protect rainforests is to involve local residents in sustainable management.

Voice of America - French to Africa News, Interview with Jeffrey Hatcher

Voice of America - French to Africa News, Interview with Jeffrey Hatcher

February 2012

 

On February 14, 2011, the 'Voice of America - French to Africa' website aired an interview with RRI's Global Program Director Jeffrey Hatcher within their "Magazine Economique" program. The interview in French can be found around minute 25 by going to this link: http://www.voanews.com/mp3/voa/africa/fren/FRENCH_MAGAZINES-TUE.mp3

Rio+20 shows little sign of living up to original Earth summit

Rio+20 shows little sign of living up to original Earth summit

February 2012

 

Twenty years ago, a historic environmental summit in Rio de Janeiro produced groundbreaking treaties and high hopes that pressing issues would be addressed. But as organizers prepare for the Rio+20 conference in June, there is little on the agenda to suggest any substantive action will be taken.

Comment on accapare les terres de l’Afrique

Comment on accapare les terres de l’Afrique

February 2012

 

Les terres coutumières, gérées localement, sont une porte ouverte à l'arrivée d'investisseurs étrangers en mal d'espace pour développer un juteux business agricole.

New Global Land Rush Trampling Human Rights

New Global Land Rush Trampling Human Rights

February 2012

 

It is an age-old story in the developing world, one that rarely ends happily ever after. Communities without economic power that live off of land to which they do not “own” are devastated when their government transfers the property rights to wealthy outside interests, who exploit the natural resources. These land deals often result in chaos, strife, and large-scale human tragedy...

African Land Grabs Hinder Sustainable Development

African Land Grabs Hinder Sustainable Development

February 2012

 

This article covers the RRI 'panel on the trends shaping rural lands and lives' held on February 1, 2012 where two RRI studies were formally presented: - Turning Point: What Future for Forest Peoples and Resources in the Emerging World Order? - Rights to Resources in Crisis: Reviewing the Fate of Customary Tenure in Africa, by RRI Fellow Liz Alden Wily

Africa Land Grabs 'Could Cause Conflicts'

Africa Land Grabs 'Could Cause Conflicts'

February 2012

 

FREETOWN, Liberia, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- The stampede by wealthy states for arable land across Africa and other developing regions could trigger a series of conflicts if governments fail to protect the rights of their people, two recent studies on land grabs warn.

Weak Land Rights in Africa Fuel Potential for Conflicts - Experts

Weak Land Rights in Africa Fuel Potential for Conflicts - Experts

February 2012

 

This article covers the RRI 'panel on the trends shaping rural lands and lives' and the publication released in London on February 1, 2012.

Warning of unrest, new study shows millions risk losing lands in Africa

Warning of unrest, new study shows millions risk losing lands in Africa

February 2012

 

This article covers the RRI 'panel on the trends shaping rural lands and lives' held on February 1, 2012 where two RRI studies were formally presented: - Turning Point: What Future for Forest Peoples and Resources in the Emerging World Order? - Rights to Resources in Crisis: Reviewing the Fate of Customary Tenure in Africa, by RRI Fellow Liz Alden Wily

Global Land Grab Could Trigger Conflict, Report Says

Global Land Grab Could Trigger Conflict, Report Says

February 2012

 

This article covers the RRI 'panel on the trends shaping rural lands and lives' held on February 1, 2012 where two RRI studies were formally presented: - Rights and Resources Initiative. Turning Point: What Future for Forest Peoples and Resources in the Emerging World Order? - Rights to Resources in Crisis: Reviewing the Fate of Customary Tenure in Africa, by RRI Fellow Liz Alden Wily

Liberian residents say foreign firm threatens their land rights

Liberian residents say foreign firm threatens their land rights

February 2012

 

This article refers to an RRI statement on the Feb. 1, 2012 release of new studies on the sell-off of forests and other prime lands, particularly citing in-depth research on Africa by Liz Alden Wily (From her series "Rights to Resources in Crisis: Reviewing the Fate of Customary Land Tenure in Africa).

Lack of Land Rights Could Lead to Land Rush

Lack of Land Rights Could Lead to Land Rush

February 2012

 

This article covers the RRI 'panel on the trends shaping rural lands and lives' held on February 1, 2012 where two RRI studies were formally presented: -Turning Point: What Future for Forest Peoples and Resources in the Emerging World Order? - Rights to Resources in Crisis: Reviewing the Fate of Customary Tenure in Africa, by RRI Fellow Liz Alden Wily

Les droits fonciers des communautés africaines en danger

Les droits fonciers des communautés africaines en danger

February 2012

 

Africa: Weak Land Rights Promote Land Rush

Africa: Weak Land Rights Promote Land Rush

February 2012

 

This article covers the RRI 'panel on the trends shaping rural lands and lives' held in London on February 1, 2012 where two RRI studies were formally presented: - Rights and Resources Initiative. Turning Point: What Future for Forest Peoples and Resources in the Emerging World Order? - Rights to Resources in Crisis: Reviewing the Fate of Customary Tenure in Africa, by RRI Fellow Liz Alden Wily

Turning Point: What future for forest peoples and resources in the emerging  world order?

Turning Point: What future for forest peoples and resources in the emerging world order?

February 2012

 

This article covers the RRI 'panel on the trends shaping rural lands and lives' held on February 1, 2012 where the new RRI report was released: - Turning Point: What Future for Forest Peoples and Resources in the Emerging World Order?

Land Sales Propel Civil Wars, Experts Warn

Land Sales Propel Civil Wars, Experts Warn

February 2012

 

This article refers to an RRI statement on the Feb. 1, 2012 release of new studies on the sell-off of forests and other prime lands.

Warnung vor Ausverkauf von Afrika

Warnung vor Ausverkauf von Afrika

February 2012

 

La Venta de Cultivos Genera Conflictos en el Mundo, Saegún un Estudio

La Venta de Cultivos Genera Conflictos en el Mundo, Saegún un Estudio

February 2012

 

Africa Land Purchases May Spark Rights Discord, Group Says

Africa Land Purchases May Spark Rights Discord, Group Says

February 2012

 

This article refers to an RRI statement on the Feb. 1, 2012 release of new studies on the sell-off of forests and other prime lands, citing in particular, in-depth research on Africa by Liz Alden Wily (From her series "Rights to Resources in Crisis: Reviewing the Fate of Customary Land Tenure in Africa).

Fears about community rights under REDD+ are justified despite tenure reforms

Fears about community rights under REDD+ are justified despite tenure reforms

November 2011

 

Indigenous organisations have been among the most vocal critics of REDD+ schemes

Climate Conversations - Uprooting Families to Save Trees

Climate Conversations - Uprooting Families to Save Trees

October 2011

 

Effects of the Global Land Rush on indigenous farmers and a Landesa study of the property rights implications of REDD+. Author Darryl Vhugen is a senior attorney and land tenure specialist with Landesa, a non-profit organisation that has advised and partnered with government departments and other groups in more than 40 countries to help extend secure land rights to the rural poor.

Developing Countries United Under UN Agency to Counter Deforestation

Developing Countries United Under UN Agency to Counter Deforestation

October 2011

 

This article discusses the efforts to increase indigenous rights and involvement in the international initiative, UN-REDD.

Rights Groups Strategize To Curb Forest Resources Abuse

Rights Groups Strategize To Curb Forest Resources Abuse

September 2011

 

Local press coverage of the 2012 RRI Africa Regional Planning Meetings.

A Battle Is Under Way For The Forests Of Borneo

A Battle Is Under Way For The Forests Of Borneo

August 2011

 

Assessing the current situation in West Borneo's Dayak community and what that means for Indonesia's forests at large, this article interviews RRI Coordinator Andy White about what needs to be done to sustain Indonesia's forests.

Indigenous Indonesians Fear Forest Sell-Off

Indigenous Indonesians Fear Forest Sell-Off

August 2011

 

This article details the concerns of the indigenous Sasak communities in Lombok, Indonesia after the author took a field trip through Sasak communities as part of the International Conference on Forest Tenure, Governance and Enterprise.

Forest groups say Indonesia should look to Chinese model

Forest groups say Indonesia should look to Chinese model

August 2011

 

Citing RRI Coordinator Andy White, this article uses tenure reform in China to frame Indonesia's debate over tenure reform after the International Conference on Forest Tenure, Governance and Enterprise.

Guest Post: Women Remain Outside the Global Forest Estate

Guest Post: Women Remain Outside the Global Forest Estate

August 2011

 

In this guest post, RRI Coordinator Andy White writes about the need for women to be involved in the design and implementation of any future tenure reforms to ensure their success.

Letter: REDD+ and Local Rights

Letter: REDD+ and Local Rights

August 2011

 

In this Op-Ed to the Jakarta Post, RRI Coordinator Andy White reminds us of the outcomes from the International Conference on Forest Tenure, Governance and Enterprise and the role that Indigenous Peoples must play in any future discussions on REDD.

Cameroon Meeting Declares Women's Interests in Land

Cameroon Meeting Declares Women's Interests in Land

August 2011

 

This article briefly highlights the discussions held during a two-day workshop in Edea, Cameroon to address gender and access to land rights. Cecile Ndjebet, Director of RRI Collaborator REFACOF, and RRI Africa Associate Marina France were interviewed for the article.

Jakarta Must Set Up Forest Bodies to Unblock Aid - Norway

Jakarta Must Set Up Forest Bodies to Unblock Aid - Norway

August 2011

 

During the International Conference on Forest Tenure, Governance and Enterprise held in Lombok, Indonesia, a Norwegian government representative discussed the conditions for releasing the rest of $1 billion in aid to Indonesia to help halt deforestation. This article highlights what has been accomplished and what remains to be done before this aid will resume.

 Foresters from around world studying Montana timber management

Foresters from around world studying Montana timber management

July 2011

 

Interviewing RRI Coordinator Andy White and international foresters from China, Peru, Mexico and Indonesia, this article examines why Montana's forest policy can serve as a blueprint for forest management at the international level.

International Forest Managers Heading to Lubrecht to Learn about Montana's Management Policies

International Forest Managers Heading to Lubrecht to Learn about Montana's Management Policies

July 2011

 

This article discusses the aim of RRI-sponsored meetings in Montana of international foresters and the forest management policies in place at the Lubrecht Experimental Forest.

Indonesians Await Forest Tenure Reform

Indonesians Await Forest Tenure Reform

July 2011

 

Using the Indonesian forestry reserve of Sesaot as an example, this article outlines how much further the Indonesian government must go to achieve forest tenure reform. RRI Coordinator Andy White and RRI Collaborator AMAN help assess the current situation in Indonesian forests.

Participatory Map Vital for Indonesia’s Environment Plans

Participatory Map Vital for Indonesia’s Environment Plans

July 2011

 

This article interviews attendees of the International Conference on Forest Tenure, Governance and Enterprise about the importance of community mapping to Indonesian forest tenure reform.

Indonesia Announces 'Unprecedented' Expansion of Land Rights

Indonesia Announces 'Unprecedented' Expansion of Land Rights

July 2011

 

Citing the Rights and Resources Initiative and its Coordinator, Andy White, this article reviews the Indonesian government's public commitment to recognize community land rights as one result of the Forest Tenure, Governance and Enterprise Conference.

Forest Carbon Rights for Poor at Risk – Study

Forest Carbon Rights for Poor at Risk – Study

July 2011

 

In the context of assigning "carbon rights," this article discusses the need to first assign land rights to indigenous populations--something that has yet to be done for a great number of people in Indonesia, according to RRI Coordinator Andy White.

Expanding Land Rights to Boost Growth, Cut Emissions

Expanding Land Rights to Boost Growth, Cut Emissions

July 2011

 

This article discusses the statements made by Kuntoro Mangkusubroto, the Indonesian president's special envoy to the Forest Tenure, Governance and Enterprise conference co-hosted by RRI in Lombok, Indonesia.

Activists Press for Gender Equality in Forest Tenure Reforms

Activists Press for Gender Equality in Forest Tenure Reforms

July 2011

 

This article interviews Asian activists about their push to incorporate gender rights into tenure reform during the RRI co-sponsored Forest Tenure, Governance and Enterprise Conference.

Indonesia's Pledge to Forest People Welcomed

Indonesia's Pledge to Forest People Welcomed

July 2011

 

RRI board member Vicki Tauli-Corpuz is interviewed in this article about the Indonesian indigenous community's reaction to the government's pledge to further recognize customary land rights in the country.

Jakarta rethinks forest policy

Jakarta rethinks forest policy

July 2011

 

Indonesia has assumed a target to cut greenhouse gas emission rates by half and achieve an economic growth rate of 7% by changing the way it manages its vast forest land, and giving greater control over land to local communities...

Indonesia promises to deliver on community forestry rights

Indonesia promises to deliver on community forestry rights

July 2011

 

An Indonesian official pledged to renew efforts to safeguard the rights of forest communities, a move widely recognized by experts as key to the long-term protection of the country’s forests and cultures.

Indonesia's pledge to forest people welcomed

Indonesia's pledge to forest people welcomed

July 2011

 

Forest groups welcomed an Indonesian commitment to protect the rights of indigenous people who have long complained that their land is being stolen in the name of conservation schemes.

Indonesia pledges to resolve forest land conflicts

Indonesia pledges to resolve forest land conflicts

July 2011

 

Indonesia’s government made some big promises: to resolve land tenure conflicts that plague the country while also protecting the rights of people in forest-based communities...

Indonesia Pledges to Resolve Forest Land Conflicts

Indonesia Pledges to Resolve Forest Land Conflicts

July 2011

 

RRI Coordinator Andy White is interviewed in this article discussing the Indonesian government's recent pledge to respect the customary land rights of Indonesian forest-based communities.

Asia: Indigenous People Gain Greater Forest Rights

Asia: Indigenous People Gain Greater Forest Rights

July 2011

 

Heading into day two of the RRI co-hosted forestry conference in Lombok, Indonesia, this article reiterates the fact that community forest rights are essential to halting deforestation.

Indonesia to Recognize Rights of Forest Communities, Indigenous Peoples

Indonesia to Recognize Rights of Forest Communities, Indigenous Peoples

July 2011

 

Mongabay.com reports on the Indonesian government's claim during the RRI co-sponsored conference in Lombok, Indonesia that Indonesian forest communities' customary rights will be protected.

Community Control, Rather than Government Control, Helps Forests Recover, Says Study

Community Control, Rather than Government Control, Helps Forests Recover, Says Study

July 2011

 

This article highlights the RRI report "The Greener Side of REDD+: Lessons for REDD+ from Countries where Forest Area is Increasing" in its conclusion that community forest rights help halt or even reverse deforestation.

Carbon Markets Contracting

Carbon Markets Contracting

July 2011

 

The World Bank and RRI Coordinator Andy White are cited in this article's position that global carbon markets and carbon trading are stalled.

Ugandan Tribe Struggles to Maintain Forests and Access Benefits

Ugandan Tribe Struggles to Maintain Forests and Access Benefits

July 2011

 

A look at the state of indigenous rights in Uganda and the potential for safeguarding forest community tenure rights at the global level, citing RRI Coordinator Andy White and RRI Partner Forest Trends.

Climate Change: Community forestry feted for carbon reduction role

Climate Change: Community forestry feted for carbon reduction role

June 2011

 

This article details how RRI Partner FECOFUN was rewarded for its work in reducing carbon emissions through sustainable community forestry initiatives.

Sustainable Forests Rise by 50%, Says Study

Sustainable Forests Rise by 50%, Says Study

June 2011

 

In this article RRI Coordinator Andy White offers his assessment of a new report on the state of the world's tropical forests that was released by the International Tropical Timber Organization.

Protection Gives Mighty Boost to Few Forests

Protection Gives Mighty Boost to Few Forests

June 2011

 

An article discussing data released by the International Tropical Timber Organization, with commentary from RRI Coordinator Andy White.

Institutional Reform, ‘Quality’ Growth, May Help Sustain World’s Natural Resources

Institutional Reform, ‘Quality’ Growth, May Help Sustain World’s Natural Resources

June 2011

 

This summary highlights the contributions of RRI Coordinator Andy White and RRI Fellow Sten Nilsson in addressing the Royal Academy of Agriculture and Forestry during the seminar "Global Trends: Implications on the Development and Use of Natural Resources" held in Stockholm, Sweden.

90% of Tropical Forests Poorly Managed, or Not At All

90% of Tropical Forests Poorly Managed, or Not At All

June 2011

 

An article highlighting the tremendous amount of work to be done in sustainably managing the world's tropical forests, with input from RRI Coordinator Andy White.

Good News and Bad News for the World's Tropical Forests

Good News and Bad News for the World's Tropical Forests

June 2011

 

This blog post weighs the progress in tropical forest conservation against the challenges that lie ahead according to a new survey released by the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO).

Interview with Andy White, Rights and Resources Initiative: “The global market for forest carbon is not going to establish itself anytime soon”

Interview with Andy White, Rights and Resources Initiative: “The global market for forest carbon is not going to establish itself anytime soon”

May 2011

 

In this interview for REDD-Monitor, RRI Coordinator Andy White discusses the state of REDD and what "mid-course corrections" are needed for REDD to reach its full potential.

Forest Act Amendment Bill in Limbo

Forest Act Amendment Bill in Limbo

April 2011

 

An article detailing the work of RRI partner FECOFUN in demanding that the government of Nepal abandon an amendment that would further curb community forest rights.

100 Years of Palm Oil

100 Years of Palm Oil

The Rights and Resources Initiative Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change

April 2011

 

This newsletter from the International Campaign for Ecological Justice in Indonesia details the negative impact of oil palm development on Indonesia and highlights the policy suggestions for mitigating the effects of climate change that resulted from the RRI-hosted 9th Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change.

The Rights and Resources Initiative Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change

The Rights and Resources Initiative Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change

Key areas of debate on COP16 and REDD+

April 2011

 

Down to Earth is a publication of the International Campaign for Ecological Justice in Indonesia. This article was published in publication No. 88, April 2011.

Cash Alone Will Not  Slow Forest Carbon Emissions

Cash Alone Will Not Slow Forest Carbon Emissions

March 2011

 

An Op-Ed by Andy White, coordinator of the Rights and Resources Initiative, on the true drivers of global deforestation and the importance of GREEN on the success of REDD.

Climate Justice Research Project Scholarly Note

Climate Justice Research Project Scholarly Note

REDD & REDD+

March 2011

 

A scholarly note citing RRI analysis (among others) on the potential disasters of REDD/REDD+ implementation.

Forest Fest Makes Headway in Protection, Poverty Reduction

Forest Fest Makes Headway in Protection, Poverty Reduction

March 2011

 

An article on the conclusions reached at the United Nations' 9th Forum on Forests, including input from RRI Board Member Vicky Tauli-Corpuz.

Giving Forest Dwellers a Greater Say Over Their Territory

Giving Forest Dwellers a Greater Say Over Their Territory

March 2011

 

A short post including audio excerpts from the RRI-sponsored 9th Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change held on February 8 in London, England.

EfD Ethiopia Co-Organized African Regional Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change

EfD Ethiopia Co-Organized African Regional Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change

February 2011

 

An article discussing the role of the Africa Regional Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change on climate change policy and REDD.

New Report says Forest Land Reform Stagnating, Posing Risks to Global Efforts to Combat Climate Change and Poverty

New Report says Forest Land Reform Stagnating, Posing Risks to Global Efforts to Combat Climate Change and Poverty

February 2011

 

A post discussing RRI's Annual Report and key analysis drawn from the Initiative's 9th Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change.

Slow But Steady Progress on Recognizing Indigenous Land Rights Is Interrupted by Commodity Boom

Slow But Steady Progress on Recognizing Indigenous Land Rights Is Interrupted by Commodity Boom

February 2011

 

An interview with RRI's Coordinator Andy White about the recent release of the RRI Annual Report "Pushback: Local Power, Global Realignment," and his opinions on the state of forest tenure policy and practice.

Rising land, food prices cause recognition of indigenous peoples' rights to stagnate

Rising land, food prices cause recognition of indigenous peoples' rights to stagnate

February 2011

 

An article highlighting the key arguments of RRI's Annual Report "Pushback: Local Power, Global Realignment."

Indigenous Communities Fighting For Land Rights More Than Ever

Indigenous Communities Fighting For Land Rights More Than Ever

February 2011

 

An article highlighting several issues from the RRI Annual Report "Pushback: Local Power, Global Realignment."

Land Grabs Intensify as Local Rights Are Disregarded

Land Grabs Intensify as Local Rights Are Disregarded

February 2011

 

An article referencing findings from the Rights and Resources Initiative's Annual Report "Pushback: Local Power, Global Realignment."

Indigenous Communities Fighting For Land Rights More Than Ever

Indigenous Communities Fighting For Land Rights More Than Ever

Governments & Corporations Fighting Back

February 2011

 

An article highlighting analysis from RRI's recently-released annual report "Pushback: Local Power, Global Realignment."

Keeping forest dwellers involved in forest protection and REDD

Keeping forest dwellers involved in forest protection and REDD

February 2011

 

A post citing the Rights and Resources Initiative in its assessment of the importance that forest communities play in the global fight to reduce carbon emissions.

Communities Not Getting a Say in How Forests Are Managed

Communities Not Getting a Say in How Forests Are Managed

February 2011

 

An article highlighting the lack of progress that has been made in reversing deforestation as of 2011: the UN's International Year of Forests.

Forest Summit Seeks 'People-Friendly' Solutions

Forest Summit Seeks "People-Friendly" Solutions

January 2011

 

An article on the outlook for forest communities and the progress that needs to be made heading into the 9th Session of the UN Forum on Forests.

Slow death by carbon credits

Slow death by carbon credits

Indigenous peoples can suffer from pollution compensation plan

January 2011

 

Report on Messaging, Training, and Media Efforts for RRI and Community Forest Management at COP16

Report on Messaging, Training, and Media Efforts for RRI and Community Forest Management at COP16

Mexico 2010

January 2011

 

RRI and its partners successfully drew attention to the importance of community forest management in addressing climate change and slowing the destruction of forests in Mexico and throughout the developing world. By releasing their report in advance of COP16 in Cancún and encouraging media interest in field trips to local communities and interviews with local leaders, RRI and its partners were able to inform reporters and through them the policy makers who would attend the conference. The outcome was the result of a six-month process that helped prepare Mexican partners for the global stage. CCMSS advocates and researchers joined RRI staff in meetings with foreign correspondents in Mexico City, and CCMSS staff organized and led field trips with a number of reporters representing major media outlets in important and influential markets. Researchers, advocates, and community leaders were able to communicate with reporters, not only their own stories and messages, but also those of the global forestry community. The following report summarizes the activities and outcomes of RRI’s message development, training, and media efforts over the past six months, which ultimately resulted in several international media articles on the importance of including communities in the REDD agreements, while highlighting the success of Mexico’s community forest management.

Mexican foresters invoke less destructive logging

Mexican foresters invoke less destructive logging

Reuters Africa

December 2010

 

RRI provided press support and training to the community forestry practitioners mentioned in this article.

Cancún climate change summit: One lesson not to learn from Mexico

Cancún climate change summit: One lesson not to learn from Mexico

The Guardian

December 2010

 

Lusa Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

Lusa Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

October 2010

 

Lusa wire coverage in Portuguese of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008.

Press Coverage for the Seeing People through the Trees Report Release

Press Coverage for the Seeing People through the Trees Report Release

July 2010

 

Seeing People through the Trees was released in July 2008. This press coverage contains an index of all coverage received as well as full texts of the stories. Highlights of the coverage include wire stories from Agence France-Presse, Reuters, and Press Association (UK); print coverage in Business Daily (Kenya), The Guardian (UK), The Independent (UK), a front page story in Bangkok Post (Thailand) and an opinion piece in the Philippines Daily Inquirer; and original online stories by BBC News, Daily Telegraph (UK), EDIE.net (UK), and New Scientist. In addition, stories were broadcast on BBC World Service, BBC World Service’s Network Africa program, and Radio France International.

Flctualit Coverage of Fourth Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change

Flctualit Coverage of Fourth Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change

April 2010

 

Flctualit coverage of the Fourth Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change held April 6, 2010 in London.

Reuters Coverage of Fourth Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change

Reuters Coverage of Fourth Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change

April 2010

 

Reuters coverage of the Fourth Dialogue on Forests, Governance and Climate Change held April 6, 2010 in London.

Mongabay.com Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

Mongabay.com Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

January 2010

 

Mongabay.com coverage of The End of the Hinterland report release.

Spiegel Online Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

Spiegel Online Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

January 2010

 

Spiegel Online coverage in English of The End of the Hinterland report release.

Wire Coverage of the End of the Hinterland Release

Wire Coverage of the End of the Hinterland Release

January 2010

 

Full text of the coverage from the following wires of the release of the End of the Hinterland report: EFE - Spain ANI - India Business Daily Update - China GNA - Ghana Pressetext - Austria Thompson Reuters Foundation AlertNet - UK XinhuaNet - China

Daily Independent Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

Daily Independent Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

January 2010

 

Print coverage of The End of the Hinterland report release from the Daily Independent in Nigeria.

Guardian Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

Guardian Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

January 2010

 

The Guardian print coverage of The End of the Hinterland report release.

Folha Online Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

Folha Online Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

January 2010

 

Folha Online coverage in Portuguese of The End of the Hinterland report release.

Press Coverage Executive Summary for End of the Hinterland Release

Press Coverage Executive Summary for End of the Hinterland Release

January 2010

 

An executive summary of the press coverage of the release of The End of the Hinterland report. Following the summary is an index of all press hits.

BBC News Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

BBC News Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

January 2010

 

BBC News online coverage of The End of the Hinterland report release.

Humanitarian News Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

Humanitarian News Coverage of The End of the Hinterland

January 2010

 

Humanitarian News coverage of The End of the Hinterland report release.

Press Coverage for the Tropical Forest Tenure Assessment

Press Coverage for the Tropical Forest Tenure Assessment

June 2009

 

Index and text of total press coverage for the Tropical Forest Tenure Assessment report released May 2009.

Press Coverage of the Rights, Forests, and Climate Change Conference in Oslo, Norway

Press Coverage of the Rights, Forests, and Climate Change Conference in Oslo, Norway

October 2008

 

An index of press coverage of the Oslo Conference along with the complete text of all press stories. Promotion of the Rights, Forests, and Climate Change Conference in Oslo, Norway resulted in significant coverage in the online development world and in key European outlets. A Reuters story that ran in English and Portuguese resulted in print pick-up by the Hindustan Times (India), Times of Malta, and Vancouver Province (Canada), and significant online-pick up, including O Estado de São Paulo Online (Brazil), O Globo Online (Brazil), Scientific American Online, and USA Today Online. Original online coverage included stories by Agrodigital.com (Spain), BLADE (Blog on Assistance and Development), Development Today (Norway), Guardian Online (UK), Mongabay.com, Nature News (UK), Partnership for the Tropical Forest Margins, and Tree Hugger.

AFP Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

AFP Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

October 2008

 

AFP wire coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008.

El Mundo Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

El Mundo Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

October 2008

 

El Mundo original online coverage in Spanish of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008.

EFE Wire Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona

EFE Wire Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona

October 2008

 

EFE coverage in Spanish of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008.

Europa Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

Europa Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

October 2008

 

Europa wire coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008.

IPAM Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

IPAM Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

October 2008

 

IPAM original online coverage in Portuguese of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008.

Publico Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

Publico Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

October 2008

 

Pubico online coverage in Spanish of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008.

Amazonia Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

Amazonia Coverage of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008

October 2008

 

Amazonia original online coverage in Portuguese of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, October 2008.

Press Release: RRI Response to Sime Darby February 3rd accusation of 'False and Inaccurate Reports on Liberian Operations'

Press Release: RRI Response to Sime Darby February 3rd accusation of "False and Inaccurate Reports on Liberian Operations"

February 2012

 

In response to February 3, 2012 press release by Sime Darby Berhard “False and Inaccurate Reports on Liberian Operations.” Washington, D.C. - In light of Sime Darby’s February 3rd claims, the Rights and Resources Initiative (RRI) has verified all quotes and facts presented in “Turning Point: What future for forest peoples and resources in the emerging world order?”, “Rights to Resources in Crisis: Reviewing the fate of customary tenure in Africa,” and the accompanying press release. We stand behind the facts as we originally reported them. These recent analyses provide a rigorous analysis covering 35 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, showing that there is an almost continent-wide disconnect between what many governments assert they own and what local communities know has been theirs for generations. RRI recognizes and applauds Sime Darby’s ongoing engagement with the rigorous social and environmental standards established by the RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil). RRI looks forward to reporting on the positive benefits accrued by all parties stemming from these interactions. The land rights issues raised in RRI’s analyses, specifically regarding the Sime Darby operations in Liberia, is an exemplary warning of the issues and risks investors in Africa will face unless the rights of local people and communities are respected at the outset of investment deals. RRI supports responsible investment and development, and works closely with local actors to ensure that their voices are heard and their rights respected.

Press Release: Studies Suggest Weak Land Rights Worldwide Promote Land Rush

Press Release: Studies Suggest Weak Land Rights Worldwide Promote Land Rush

February 2012

 

LONDON (1 February 2012)—New studies released in London today suggest that the frenzied sell-off of forests and other prime lands to buyers hungry for the developing world’s natural resources risk sparking widespread civil unrest—unless national leaders and investors recognize the customary rights of millions of poor people who have lived on and worked these lands for centuries.

The Year in Review for Rainforests

The Year in Review for Rainforests

December 2011

 

2011 was designated as "Year of the Forests" by the United Nations. While there was relatively little progress on intergovernmental forest protection programs during the year, a lot happened elsewhere. Included is a look at some of the biggest tropical forest-related news stories for 2011.

Press Release: At Global Forum, Indonesian Government Agrees to Expand Land Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Forest Communities

Press Release: At Global Forum, Indonesian Government Agrees to Expand Land Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Forest Communities

July 2011

 

As Indonesian policy lags behind other forest nations in Asia, new research suggests that the implementation of existing forest tenure laws would boost economic health and reduce carbon emissions.

Press Release: Indonesian Government Announces Dramatic Shift in Forest Policy; Signals Commitment to Expand Rights of Communities, Indigenous Peoples

Press Release: Indonesian Government Announces Dramatic Shift in Forest Policy; Signals Commitment to Expand Rights of Communities, Indigenous Peoples

July 2011

 

During his keynote speech given at the Forest Tenure, Governance and Enterprise Conference in Lombok, Kuntoro Mangkusubroto, head of the Indonesian President’s Special Delivery Unit, announced the government’s intention to prioritize the needs of its forest communities and to ―recognize, respect and protect Adat rights,‖ implementing legislation that has been on the books for ten years, but rarely implemented.

Press Release: New Studies Suggest Lack of Meaningful Land Rights Play Key Role in Conflict, Increase in Carbon Emissions from Indonesia’s Forests

Press Release: New Studies Suggest Lack of Meaningful Land Rights Play Key Role in Conflict, Increase in Carbon Emissions from Indonesia’s Forests

July 2011

 

New research released at a high-level forestry conference in Indonesia—opened by Vice President Boediono—suggests that as Asia’s largest forest nation Indonesia is paying a high price for failing to give local communities enforceable rights to contested forests, causing significant economic losses owing to its highly undervalued forestland, and leading it to lose out to regional competitors.

Press Release: New Study Shows Devolving Land Rights to Local Communities Key Factor in Rejuvenating Forests in Tropical Countries

Press Release: New Study Shows Devolving Land Rights to Local Communities Key Factor in Rejuvenating Forests in Tropical Countries

July 2011

 

New research highlights the link between embracing community rights and dramatic gains in forest cover in Asian countries.

Press Release: New Report shows forests provide more livelihood benefits when local forest users have a right to participate in forest governance

Press Release: New Report shows forests provide more livelihood benefits when local forest users have a right to participate in forest governance

March 2011

 

New research highlighted in Science finds that there is a greater likelihood of a forest providing higher subsistence livelihood benefits to local populations, and also having higher levels of biodiversity, when local forest users have a right to participate in forest governance by making rules over the management and use of the forest.

FPP Press Release: World Bank's Forest Climate Fund Sidelines Indigenous Peoples' Rights

FPP Press Release: World Bank's Forest Climate Fund Sidelines Indigenous Peoples' Rights

March 2011

 

A press release for the report "Smoke and Mirrors," by the Forest Peoples Programme and FERN.

PRISMA Press Release: New Report on REDD+ in Mesoamerica

PRISMA Press Release: New Report on REDD+ in Mesoamerica

March 2011

 

A press release for the report "Designing a REDD+ Program that Benefits Forestry Communities in Mesoamerica," published by PRISMA and Grupo Cabal.

New Report Says Forest Land Reform Stagnating, Posing Risks to Global Efforts to Combat Climate Change, Hunger and Poverty

New Report Says Forest Land Reform Stagnating, Posing Risks to Global Efforts to Combat Climate Change, Hunger and Poverty

February 2011

 

LONDON (8 February 2011) —Rapidly-rising food prices and growing demand for all land-based commodities, like palm oil and biofuels, are driving an intensive global land hunt that threatens the rights of hundreds of millions of local people living in tropical forests, according to a report released today by the Rights and Resources Initiative (RRI)...

Press Release

Press Release

New Study: Mexico’s Forest Communities Excel in Good Management, Outperform Other Strategies for Capturing Carbon to Slow Climate Change

November 2010

 

Fertile Ground for Land Grab in China as Local Middlemen and Global Paper Company Flout Farmers’ Land Rights

Fertile Ground for Land Grab in China as Local Middlemen and Global Paper Company Flout Farmers’ Land Rights

October 2010

 

WASHINGTON, DC/BEIJING, CHINA (7-8 October 2010)—A new study released today in Washington, DC and Beijing suggests that one of the world‟s largest and “greenest” paper companies, in concert with local officials and other middlemen, used illegal means to gain control over thousands of hectares of Chinese forestlands, with a goal of acquiring 120 thousand hectares for a eucalyptus plantation in the Guangxi Autonomous Region of southern China.

Fourth Dialogue on Forests, Governance & Climate Change Press Release

Fourth Dialogue on Forests, Governance & Climate Change Press Release

April 2010

 

On April 6, 2010 the Rights and Resources Initiative gathered forestry leaders in London to draw attention to concerns on the part of forest communities and civil society about lack of transparency in determining the plan and structure for implementing REDD+.

Agenda - Fourth RRI Dialogue on Forests, Governance & Climate Change

Agenda - Fourth RRI Dialogue on Forests, Governance & Climate Change

April 2010

 

The agenda and background information for the Fourth RRI Dialogue on Forests, Governance & Climate Change held April 6, 2010 in London.

The End of the Hinterland Published Press Release

The End of the Hinterland Published Press Release

January 2010

 

The January 2010 report from the Rights and Resources Initiative (RRI), released at an event at Chatham House, concludes that unclear land rights in some countries, coupled with threats from corruption, could block success of the US$3.5 billion pledged for a program to reduce the amount of carbon in the atmosphere by preventing the unfettered destruction of tropical forests.

Press Release on Tropical Forest Tenure Assessment Report

Press Release on Tropical Forest Tenure Assessment Report

May 2009

 

The Rights and Resources Initiative released the Tropical Forest Tenure Assessment in May 2009 along with the International Tropical Timber Organization. The report found that governments retain control over the world’s tropical forests’ globally, hindering action to stop deforestation and alleviate poverty among some of the world’s poorest rural peoples.

Press Release on the Rights, Forests, and Climate Change Conference in Oslo, Norway

Press Release on the Rights, Forests, and Climate Change Conference in Oslo, Norway

October 2008

 

The press release for the Rights, Forests, and Climate Change Conference in Oslo, Norway in October 2008 held with Rainforest Foundation Norway. The conference showcased new research on rights-based approaches as necessary and cost-effective strategies for emissions reductions from forests.

Barcelona Press Release October 2008

Barcelona Press Release October 2008

October 2008

 

A statement from the Rights and Resources Initiative, along with the Amazon Alliance and Forest Peoples Programme, regarding the effects of carbon land grabbing on indigenous peoples as a result of REDD.

Press Release for Seeing People through the Trees Report Release

Press Release for Seeing People through the Trees Report Release

July 2008

 

The Rights and Resources Initiative released the Seeing People through the Trees report July 2008. This press release describes release event held in London.

The State of the Forests of Papua New Guinea Report Press Release

The State of the Forests of Papua New Guinea Report Press Release

June 2008

 

Press release detailing The State of the Forests of Papua New Guinea report released in May 2008 by the University of Papua New Guinea Remote Sensing Centre with Phil Shearman as lead author.