So far in 2024, across the EMENA region, five National Land Coalitions (NLCs) are driving transformative progress in land governance, rooted in community participation and sustainable development. From Albania to Palestine, these coalitions are not only solidifying their structures but actively implementing strategic plans that prioritize biodiversity, climate resilience, and the protection of traditional livelihoods, including women and youth.
EUROPE: THE WESTERN BALKANS TAKE OFF
In the Western Balkans, Albania is the longest-standing NLC, hosted by the National Federation of Communal Forests and Pastures and has made significant strides in shaping forest policies. Their advocacy has successfully integrated the voices of local communities into national regulations, ensuring that forest governance reflects the needs of the people who depend on these ecosystems.
Also in the region, Kosovo’s NLC has emerged from a transitional phase with renewed energy and direction. Now hosted by the Connecting Natural Values and People Foundation (CNVP), the coalition has embraced a forward-looking strategy that strengthens its focus on biodiversity protection and climate action. By engaging rural youth, Kosovo’s NLC is ensuring that the next generation takes an active role in shaping sustainable rural development and forestry management.
Montenegro’s NLC, the youngest in the Balkans, is rapidly gaining momentum. Originally fueled by the grassroots organization Save Sinjajevina Civic Initiative, the coalition has expanded its reach to encompass the pastoral regions of the entire country. Its 2025-2027 strategy aims to elevate the recognition of “katuns” (traditional pastoral settlements) at the national level, while safeguarding pastoral lifestyles and preventing land abandonment.
MENA: SUCCESSFUL NLC BUILDING DESPITE GEOPOLITICAL CONTEXT
In the Middle-East, the Jordan NLC is building on the success of the 2022 Global Land Forum, leveraging its convening power to defend pastoral land use and advocate for community-driven rangeland management (Hima). With seed funding from ILC’s Global Land Catalyst, the coalition is embarking on an ambitious initiative to protect pastoralism from the encroachment of mining activities in western Jordan.
Despite the ongoing conflict and instability in Palestine, members of ILC-EMENA are forging ahead with the establishment of their NLC. Through a new strategy grounded in a human-rights-based approach, the coalition is working to secure land rights and access for livelihoods in one of the world’s most fragile environments, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to justice, equity and call for peace.