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We are very proud of our project teams around the world who have shown great commitment and resilience throughout these trying times.
A conversation between Kate Fairlie and our MRLG project Team Leader, Micah Ingalls
Land transaction systems are often reviewed as part of land administration reform. And what we know is that land administration reform is difficult.
Earlier in 2020, Alex Wymarra, the Director of Treaty Council and First Nation Gudang-Yadhaykenu clan, approached Land Equity International (LEI) seeking technical assistance for the development of the Allodial Land Use Registry (ALUR), an Indigenous mapping and permit initiative for first nations people on the great southern land.
Rory Read's final reflections on his time with LEI and some advice for others embarking on a similar role.
Rory Read's highlights from month 3 of interning with Land Equity International.
International deforestation statistics are compelling. Annual tree cover loss is regularly reported at the size of entire countries and is rapidly increasing. We know that addressing deforestation is essential to climate mitigation – yet forests receive just 3% of available climate mitigation finance. We advocated for more emphasis on green and inclusive spatial planning that is operating at National and Local governments that can work in collaboration with foreign and domestic investors.
Tucked away in the small and remote mountainous region of Bokeo, Lao PDR, is a hidden gem of un-spoilt biodiversity, an ancient tea tree forest. The Bokeo Tea cooperative is an example of how poor ethnic minority communities with intermediary support are developing their own sustainable business and livelihoods through environmentally friendly methods. Unfortunately, the global pandemic could not have come at a worse time and threatens the emerging small business in the global market.
As an organisation, we at LEI are very grateful to all our project staff and partners who have continued to work tirelessly in this difficult pandemic environment. During this time, with people being so physically isolated, it is easy to feel disconnected. While the ‘virtual world’ has provided some respite from this isolation, through zoom meetings and the like, it somehow doesn’t fully make up for those familiar face to face connections, visiting offices and having conversations over tea or coffee. It is also daunting and unsettling when passing time is dominated by “doom scrolling” [Scrolling news articles on the COVID count and second wave surges where it is all bad news].
The Mekong Region Land Governance project will be changing leadership in October. We would like to thank John Meadows for his hard work since first joining the team in April 2017. From October, we will be joined by seasoned Mekong professional and Vientiane-based, Dr Micah Ingalls and welcome him to the team.
The second instalment of Rory Read's experiences interning with Land Equity International
Between 2001-2018, Vietnam lost 25% of its forested area, equivalent to over 2.5 million hectares. A 2004 law sought to focus efforts on reforestation and protection; however, it had major shortcomings that failed to protect both the forests and the communities dependent on them.
In spirit of reconciliation, Land Equity International acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea, and community. We pay respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
