The International Land Coalition: the new name for the Popular Coalition to Eradicate Hunger and Poverty

Over 60 Partners of the former Popular Coalition to Eradicate Hunger and Poverty, from 35 different countries and representing various civil society organizations, government, inter-governmental organizations and research institutions, attended the Coalition's first Assembly of Members. Held in Rome 17 - 18 February 2003, this diverse group came together to share lessons learned and to prepare a strategy for 2004-2006.

The Popular Coalition to Eradicate Hunger and Poverty formally changed its name to the International Land Coalition on 17 February. In order to dispel the image that comes with the term "popular" as a NGO movement and the broad range of issues related to hunger and poverty, the new name "International Land Coalition" describes the work of the Coalition:

• which is international, the nature or focus,
• which is land, which by definition includes natural resources, and
• which is a coalition, an alliance of organisations.

Thus the International Land Coalition is an alliance of intergovernmental, civil society and governmental organisations.

The highlight of the Assembly's second day consisted of a technical workshop entitled "Working Together Works." Presentations were given on practical actions and inter-organizational alliances at the local, national, and international levels that have resulted in the improved access by the poor to land and related productive assets. The participants recognized notably that:

• Access to land is important as a basis for food security, for social and economic development, as a safety net for people to be able to deal with agricultural and economic shocks, to support cultural identity and the preservation of fragile and marginal lands.
• NGOs have made important contributions through information sharing and advocacy work on behalf of and with grassroot actors, and in their collaboration with national governments and donors.
• Increased participation of stakeholders from different sectors and spheres of influence in land reform reduces violent conflict over land and leads to more efficient use of land.
• Increased attention to women's access to land, as well as women's roles as agents of change is essential to sustainable livelihoods in rural areas.
• Increased attention needs to be given to indigenous peoples and their lands and territories, as well as the emerging needs of herders and pastoralists.
• Post-settlement support is essential once land has been transferred.

Click here to read a previous interview on our Web site with Bruce Moore, Coordinator of the International Land Coalition.

Please click here to visit the International Land Coalition Web Site.

For more information please contact Bruce Moore: b.moore@ifad.org.