Key messages The mobilization of indigenous and civil society organizations has been key to getting the recognition of collective rights on the political agenda, reducing gaps in the formalization of native communities and promoting i

Key messages The mobilization of indigenous and civil society organizations has been key to getting the recognition of collective rights on the political agenda, reducing gaps in the formalization of native communities and promoting i

The Peruvian government is formalizing the territorial rights of Amazonian indigenous peoples through the titling of native community lands. Due to the complexity of this process, which involves multiple actors at different levels, it is especially important to deepen our understanding of how it is occurring in communities and how the people receiving titles perceive its impacts.

This book is an attempt to reflect on the process which made the Ucayali titling project possible. Begun in 1986 and involving the AIDESEP, IWGIA and OIRA, it was an innovative and essential first step in the process towards indigenous self-management.

The impact of the formalization of collective rights to land and forest in Peru is linked to a clear perception of tenure security: 80% of those surveyed consider their rights are stronger since titling, although this percentage is higher in men (85%) than women (75%). 83% of the members of communities analysed in Madre de Dios consider that livelihoods have become more constrained since titling took place. Despite progress, only 35% of those surveyed in Madre de Dios and Loreto say they participate in forest management. Titled communities are more actively involved (39%) than untitled ones (13%), and men more so than women. 51% of those surveyed in the communities analyzed in Madre de Dios feel that the formal rules and legislation on the use of resources are well known, clear and fair. The percentage drops significantly amongst women.