WHAT WE DO
Our Approach: Multi-Faceted Strategies for Lasting Change
We believe in a holistic approach to land rights advocacy, combining:
- Community Empowerment: We provide training, legal assistance, and advocacy support to communities facing land grabs and displacement, empowering them to become their own best advocates.
- Legal Action: We pursue strategic litigation to challenge unjust laws and practices, seeking redress for affected communities and setting legal precedents that protect land rights.
- Advocacy and Awareness-Raising: We engage in public campaigns, media outreach, and education initiatives to raise awareness about land rights issues and mobilize public support for policy change.
- Research and Documentation: We conduct rigorous research to document land rights violations, identify the root causes of land insecurity, and inform evidence-based advocacy strategies.
Our Story
From Grassroots Beginnings in Ghana to Global Impact
Land Rights Defenders Inc. emerged from the heart of the struggle, founded in Ghana in 2020 amidst a growing crisis of land dispossession and human rights abuses. Our roots are deeply intertwined with the communities we serve, and our commitment to justice was forged in the fires of real-world struggles. |
In our early days, we focused on documenting cases of land grabbing, providing legal support to affected communities, and organizing grassroots advocacy campaigns. We worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the devastating impact of land dispossession on vulnerable populations, particularly women, Indigenous peoples, and smallholder farmers.
A turning point in our journey came with our landmark victory in the case against the Ghana Police Service and Attorney General’s Department (Suit No. HR/0026/2022). This precedent-setting case exposed the unlawful arrest and abuse of Nana Osei Bonsu, a prominent land rights defender, and secured compensation for the victims. We are currently pursuing an appeal against the High Court’s ruling, determined to hold those responsible fully accountable and ensure justice for all those affected.
In April 2023, we expanded our reach by incorporating internationally in the United States. This strategic move was prompted by the need to protect our founder, Nana Osei Bonsu, from persecution after his courageous stand against powerful interests in Ghana. The international expansion allowed us to amplify our impact on a global scale, reaching new audiences and forging partnerships with like-minded organizations around the world.
Today, Land Rights Defenders Inc. is becoming a leading force in the global movement for land justice. We have established a robust network of partners in over 5 countries, working together to empower communities, influence policy, and secure legal victories. Our work has been featured in major media outlets, including Fox News partners, and we continue to gain recognition from the Ohio Attorney General Charitable Law Section after our board members successfully completed the Charitable University Program. Our innovative and impactful approach to land rights advocacy.
Donation Policy
Your gift is tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. In addition, we may be able to offer you a matching gift from your employer. Please check with your employer to see if they offer a matching gift program. As a donor, you will also be eligible to receive periodic updates on our work and the impact of your gift. We will also keep you informed of ways you can get involved in our work.
PPP Business Model:
- Your donation is tax-deductible. This means that you can deduct the amount of your donation from your taxable income.
- Land Rights Defenders Inc. is not required to pay federal income tax. This means that more of your donation can go directly to supporting our work.
- Land Rights Defenders Inc. is held to high standards of accountability and transparency. We are required to file annual reports with the IRS and to make our financial records available to the public.
- We hope that these benefits will encourage you to donate to Land Rights Defenders Inc.
Global Impact and Philanthropy: Nana’s experience advocating for justice extends beyond Ghana. He leverages his knowledge to make a positive impact on philanthropy, as recognized by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
From Local Struggles to Global Platforms: LRDI’s Reach in Human Rights and Digital Advocacy
Land Rights Defenders’ contribution to global justice is also evident in their advocacy at UN Human Rights forums and collaborations with organizations like Candid, USAID, Google, Microsoft, and PayPal to build a strong digital identity.
LRDI employs a multifaceted approach to defend land rights and promote social justice
— Indigenous Rights
We stand with Indigenous communities in their fight for the recognition and protection of ancestral lands, traditions, and governance systems. Our work amplifies Indigenous voices and strengthens their ability to secure and steward their territories.
— Women's Economic Empowerment
We promote gender equity in land ownership, inheritance, and decision-making. By empowering women with legal knowledge, resources, and leadership opportunities, we help create more just and resilient communities.
— Advocacy
Through strategic campaigns, grassroots mobilization, and policy engagement, we raise awareness of land injustices and drive legislative change. We advocate for fair land governance systems that center marginalized communities.
— Environmental Sustainability
We protect ecosystems by promoting sustainable land use, community-led conservation, and responsible resource management. Our initiatives balance ecological preservation with the needs of local communities.
— Land Rights
We provide legal support, documentation, and capacity-building to communities facing land grabs, forced evictions, and displacement. Our team works to secure land tenure and uphold the rights of those most at risk.
— Food Security
We support smallholder farmers and agroecological practices that strengthen local food systems, preserve biodiversity, and ensure long-term food sovereignty for rural and Indigenous communities.