UK

In February 2026, the Second International Conference on Agrarian Reform and Rural Development (ICARRD+20) in Cartagena, Colombia, gathered thousands to address the global land crisis. The Access to Land Network (A2L) participated to bring Europe’s perspective into this urgent conversation. While Europe’s role in global land reform debates is often modest, the conference underscored that land justice, climate resilience, and generational renewal are not just Global South issues—they demand action here, too. From the 4Rs framework to the controversies around the final declaration, ICARRD+20 revealed both opportunities and challenges for Europe’s land movements. How can A2L translate these global insights into local impact? Our reflections and next steps follow.

At ORFC 2026, A2L facilitated a panel on why Europe urgently needs a Land Observatory. Without transparent data on land ownership, prices and concentration, addressing speculation and supporting new agroecological farmers is like farming in the fog. A Land Observatory would bring clarity – helping ensure farmland serves public good, not just private profit.