Land rights in Mongolia
WEAK LAND LEGISLATION
Land ownership certificates are relatively new in Mongolia, where private possession of land was introduced recently in 2003. Land disputes are frequent in the country, mostly due to land rights granted in duplication by different government authorities. Although the current system of land-related dispute resolution is relatively clear, equal access and fair treatment for all are not yet ensured. Additionally, land legislation is weak in protecting against land evictions and exclusions.
PASTURELAND DEGRADATION
Unsustainable pastureland practices -- including animal pressures beyond vegetation recovery and an absence of seasonal rotations -- are widespread and lead to pastureland degradation. The current common-use regime encourages the chaotic use of pastures in which a few wealthy herders (the urban rich and corporate interests) expand their grazing rights at the expense of other herders’ rights, thus increasing social inequality. Moreover, the regime encourages improper practices that neglect the interests of local herders by transforming pastureland for use in other commercial purposes such as mining, infrastructure, and tourism. The direct impact of pasture degradation is evidenced by declined forage supply, animals' increased malnutrition and exposure to risks, and decreased quality and productivity. Herders, as a result, must find ways to survive with decreasing incomes and increasing losses in assets.
