Land grabbing emerged as a global phenomenon in the period following the global financial crisis of 2007-08. Investors in search of financial returns looked to land across the world, but particularly in parts of Africa and south-east Asia. Large-scale investments in land for agriculture, biofuels or conservation uses are not new, and the recent dynamics must be seen in an historical perspective.
There has been much debate about the extent and impacts of land deals, and ongoing discussion about whether there are alternatives that facilitate overseas investment, while protecting local rights and enhancing smallholder livelihoods.
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