Mekong Regional Land Forum 2021, Session 2 Key take-aways

1. Key takeways for Session 2
Julian Atkinson, RECOFTC
26 May 2021

2. Julian Atkinson
Manager
Program Coordination and
Technical Services
RECOFTC

3. Key takeways [1]
• Multitude of experiences shared on documenting customary tenure –
how can we turn this into recognition?
• Progress and ‘bright spots’ across Mekong region – but key barriers
still inhibit full realization of rights
• Success in passage of legal instruments, but many of these remain
‘partial’
• Implementation slow – many procedures onerous and place the burden
on local people

4. Key takeways [2]
• Recognition tools and processes must be fit for purpose – accessible
and implementable by rightsholders
• Learning and exchange of experiences are important – utilize
mechanisms and platforms at national and regional levels
• Recognition of rights must remain central in post-pandemic
development agendas

5. Thank you
Community forest member collects tea leaves on the hillside
of Inle Lake’s east bank, Myanmar, 2019.
Photo by RECOFTC.