Promoting secure tenure rights and equitable access to natural resources
The Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests in the Context of National Food Security promote secure tenure rights and equitable access to land, fisheries and forests as a means of eradicating hunger and poverty, supporting sustainable development and enhancing the environment.
Setting out principles and internationally accepted standards
These Guidelines set out principles and internationally accepted standards for responsible practices. They are a framework that actors can use when developing their own strategies, policies, legislation and programmes. They allow government authorities, the private sector, civil society and citizens to judge whether their proposed actions and the actions of others constitute acceptable practices.
Legal status of the Guidelines
These Voluntary Guidelines are not legally binding. They do not replace existing national or international laws, commitments, treaties or agreements. They do not limit or undermine any legal obligations which States may have under international law. As a soft law instruments they have positive impact in guiding national policies, legislation and programmes.
