Work

(De facto) historical ethnic borders and land tenure in Sub-Saharan Africa

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: We study the role of proximity to historical ethnic borders in determining individual land ownership in Sub-Saharan Africa. Following an instrumental variable strategy, we document that individuals have a lower likelihood of owning land near historical ethnic borders. In particular, the likelihood of owning land decreases by 15 percentage points, i.e., about 1 / 3 of the mean rate of landownership, for rural migrants who move from 57 km (90th percentile) to 2 km (10th percentile) from the border. This result aligns with the view that competition for land is stronger and property rights are weaker close to historical ethnic borders in Sub-Saharan Africa. • What is the role of proximity to historical ethnic borders in determining individual land ownership in Sub-Saharan Africa? • People are less likely to own land near historical ethnic borders • This effect is particularly present for migrants in rural areas. • This suggests stronger land competition and weaker property rights near historical ethnic borders in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Source: Economics Letters

DOI: 10.1016/j.econlet.2024.111921

Authors: Emilio Depetris-Chauvin, Ömer Özak

Institutions: Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Southern Methodist University

Language: English

Topic: Land Rights and Reforms

Subfield: Soil Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,980