In the Central Sahel, HLP issues are a leading cause of forced displacement and intercommunity tensions. In 2024, incidents of property rights violations constituted 40% of protection reports. As a result of forced displacement, housing needs have significantly increased, highlighting the need for durable land access and comprehensive assistance. Cooperation among humanitarian, development, and peace initiatives is essential to address these issues effectively.
In the Central Sahel region, particularly Burkina Faso, Mali, and Western Niger, housing, land, and property (HLP) issues have emerged as critical factors contributing to forced displacement. In 2024, reports indicated that 40% of protection incidents involved violations of property rights. HLP-related conflicts, manifesting as extortion, looting, and property seizure, pose significant risks for civilians, frequently resulting in family displacements. Data from the year shows that forcibly displaced individuals expressed needs for shelters that were twice as high as those of host communities.
Furthermore, among the displaced and host communities, 50% identified the need for construction or rehabilitation, emphasizing the structural aspects of HLP issues in the region. The pressures of forced displacement have aggravated existing housing challenges, creating further insecurity regarding land tenure. This accentuates the risks of forced evictions in regions where land access is governed by competing customs and legal frameworks. Effectively managing these land rights, along with addressing emergency needs and infrastructure deficits, is essential for providing impactful assistance.
Notably, 65% of surveys indicated that donations remain the primary means to access land in the Central Sahel. Moreover, communities view HLP factors positively, influencing their willingness to return or integrate into local host areas voluntarily. Addressing these complexities—encompassing land rights, emergency shelter needs, and peacebuilding—is imperative for achieving effective cooperation among humanitarian, development, and peace practitioners.
The Central Sahel region faces significant challenges related to housing, land, and property issues, which exacerbate forced displacement and intercommunity tensions. The urgent need for secure land access and effective shelter solutions is critical. Moreover, fostering cooperation among various practitioners will be essential in addressing these challenges and promoting durable solutions for affected communities.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
