Handbook on Resettlement: A Guide to Good Practice

Abstract

Bank-funded projects that change patterns of use of land, water, and other natural resources can cause a range of resettlement effects. Resettlement losses most often arise because of land acquisition, through expropriation and the use of eminent domain or other regulatory measures, to obtain land. Housing, community structures and systems, social networks, and social services can be disrupted. Productive assets, including land, income sources, and livelihoods can be lost. Cultural identity and potential for mutual help may be diminished. Loss of resources for subsistence and income may lead to exploitation of fragile ecosystems, hardship, social tensions, and impoverishment. In urban areas, displaced people might swell a growing squatter population. The people affected have no option, and must try to rebuild their lives, incomes, and asset base elsewhere. To ensure that some people are not disadvantaged in the process of development, the Bank tries to avoid or minimize resettlement effects. If resettlement is unavoidable, the Bank helps restore the quality of life and livelihoods of those affected. There may also be opportunities to improve the quality of life, particularly for vulnerable groups. All kinds of resettlement losses need mitigative measures.