Since 2008, our research and advocacy has shed light on large-scale land investments, exposing the theft of poor peoples’ land and natural resources. The “Dracula effect” has worked in several countries, from South Sudan to Tanzania: public outcry has forced energy and food corporations, hedge funds, and Wall Street speculators to end their projects or renegotiate the terms of the unfair deals signed with governments.
Now, in response to calls for action from indigenous groups in Papua New Guinea, we are currently on the ground conducting research and working with locals for a detailed report to be released later this year. In the last few years, 5.2 million hectares of customary land have been leased, primarily to foreign corporations, of which Australian and Malaysian logging companies are some of the biggest beneficiaries. The information we have collected so far confirms that the land has been acquired without the consent of or even the knowledge of customary landholders, the indigenous populations who have been living on this land for centuries.
Across the globe, communities and civil society organizations are fighting the takeover of what is often the only thing they have--their land. This is a David versus Goliath struggle pitting rural populations and indigenous tribes against powerful corporations. That is why we have decided to produce a film that will expose the intentions of these companies, show the impact of the projects on the environment and the livelihoods of the impacted communities, and give a voice to local populations in order to support their efforts to take back what is rightfully theirs.
Join us and the indigenous communities in Papua New Guinea in the struggle for land rights and food sovereignty.