The gender implications of large-scale land deals

Abstract This article introduces a discussion of gender dimensions into the growing debate on large-scale land deals. It addresses the current information gap on the differential gender effects of large-scale land deals through (1) an overview of the phases of large-scale land deals and discussion of related effects on rural men and women based on new literature on large-scale land deals and past literature on the gender effects of commercialization and contract farming; (2) a presentation of further evidence using several case studies on the gender effects of large-scale deals; and (3) a conclusion that looks at knowledge gaps and areas for further research as well as broad recommendations for gender equitable large-scale land deals. Keywords: genderlarge-scale land dealsland tenure reform Notes 1We use the term acquisitions generally, although the mode of acquisition may range from purchase, to rental, or to contract farming arrangements. 2The study defines women's status as women's power relative to men. Thus, women with low status typically have weaker control over household resources, tighter time constraints, less access to information and health services, poorer mental health, and lower self-esteem. 3It should be noted that the magnitude of jobs which will be created as a byproduct of large-scale land deals is a subject of contention. Li (Citation2011) uses data from the World Bank (Citation2010) report on land deals to argue that for the main crops targeted, projected job creation will be minimal: 10 jobs per 1000 hectares for grains, 18 for soy, 20 for plantation forestry, around 150 for sugar and 3–4000 for oil palm, rubber and other perennials. 4Women's loss of control of labor and income has been documented in other contexts related to agricultural commercialization; see von Braun and Kennedy (Citation1994). 5 Jatropha is a genus of approximately 170 plants from the family Euphorbiaceae. The seeds from these plants are used in the production of biodiesel. 6All of the information in these case studies comes from the aforementioned two sources unless otherwise noted. 7 Berondol collection involves scavenging for palm oil seeds that have fallen during harvesting; these seeds are resold at a lower value than the market price. Although this activity is not legal, it has become a major source of income generation for many local women. 8For a set of recommendations for gender equitable large-scale land deals for a variety of stakeholders see appendix of the following: http://www.ifpri.org/sites/default/files/publications/ifpridp01056.pdf Additional informationNotes on contributorsJulia Behrman This paper was supported by funding from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. The authors are grateful to Amber Peterman, Jere Behrman, Martha Osorio, Clara Park, Katono Ouma, Andrea Reis, and anonymous reviewers from the Swiss Development Corporation for providing comments and feedback on earlier drafts.