AGRICULTURE IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES BETWEEN LOCAL RURAL DEVELOPMENT POLICIES AND INTERNATIONAL MODELS OF “LAND GRABBING”

Abstract

The papers presented in this panel focus on large-scale acquisitions of lands for agricultural or agriculture-related uses in developing countries. ‘Land grabbing’ is an issue that cuts across all these papers, as they try to shed more light on a controversial phenomenon that has attracted considerable attention in recent years. Each paper addresses the issue from a different disciplinary angle, offering a different analytical perspective.

More in general, the papers build on the ongoing debate – which sees the active participation of academic scholars, international development agencies and civil society’s representatives – on agriculture and rural development in developing countries. This debate touches upon focuses on a number of key issues. First, the role of agriculture that, although long neglected by public policies, can be an engine for development and economic growth. Secondly, the need for greater support for small-scale producers, increasing their productivity and strengthening their focus on the global market. Thirdly, the need to solve all the issues concerning land property/access, especially with regard to women, and local population’s customary land rights.