Integrating Housing, Land and Property Issues into Key Humanitarian, Transitional and Development Planning Processes

Housing, land and property (HLP) issues arise in most crisis situations, in conflict, as well as natural disasters. This is especially the case when a crisis is accompanied by significant displacement or when it occurs in a context with long-standing HLP grievances or challenges. At all times, including at all stages of crisis, affected people should be able to have a home free from the fear of forced eviction; as well as a place that offers shelter and safety and the ability to secure a livelihood. Responses to those issues invariably involve multiple sectors and actors, including those working in the humanitarian, transitional and development fields. Despite the increasing awareness about the importance of analysing and addressing HLP issues, too often the response is hampered by a failure to include HLP issues in planning processes and a lack of financial resources.

It is with this in mind that the HLP Area of Responsibility of the Global Protection Cluster and the Rule of Law Thematic Group within the Solutions Alliance1 decided to develop this Guidance Note in 2016. Its main objective is to identify possible entry points for integrating HLP issues into key planning processes across the humanitarian, transitional and development phases and thereby facilitate due consideration of HLP issues in responses.