Tackling land corruption is vital to achieving land rights and the 2030 SDG agenda

Land is a vital resource that sustains livelihoods, underpins culture and identity, and homes important natural resources. However, effective and transparent land governance - and the enjoyment of associated rights - is undermined by corrupt practices in land administration, the management of state-owned land and decisions related to land use planning.

Tackling land corruption must be a key strategy towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) since land is at the heart of poverty eradication, food security, tenure security, gender equality, decent work, water management, sustainable cities, ending climate change and protecting biodiversity. Land governance is essential for the achievement of the Sustainable Development 2030 Agenda and is intrinsically linked to the protection of human rights, especially of those most vulnerable and marginalised. Land rights can prevent human rights violations, reduce inequalities and improve access to housing, food security, and sustainable, social, and economic growth.

This brief puts forward recommendations that aim to contribute to more transparent and effective land governance and the achievement of SDG-related targets.