Beyond Relocation

This collection addresses critical issues of development-induced displacement and resettlement by offering empirical evidence from various countries, mainly in Asia and Africa. By presenting a comparative approach, it helps the reader understand and theorise about the nature and characteristics of forced displacement in several countries across the globe. It also studies the interaction among an array of actors; in particular, policy-makers, development agencies, project-affected persons, researchers and NGOs in resistance movements. Most significantly, the study offers measures to reverse and reconstruct impoverishment caused by displacement in a holistic way through benefit-sharing mechanisms which can lead to sustainable resettlement and rehabilitation. Beyond Relocation: the Imperative of Sustainable Resettlement emphasizes the need for reforming laws and policies dealing with displacement and resettlement in the Indian as well as the global context. It analyses thee issues of risks, impoverishment, entitlements and survival strategies of those displaced. This volume will be of immense value to project planners, funders and implementing agencies in view of the fact that development planners are faced with a daunting task in the process of constructing/improving the existing network of roads, railways and airport facilities which run through existent human settlements and require the acquisition of large tracts of land, leading to involuntary displacement. The essays will also be helpful for researchers engaged in the field of development and displacement studies.