30. Even development projects with ostensibly benign aims can provoke significant displacement. Conservation projects have the important aim of safeguarding wildlife and the environment yet often result in the displacement of indigenous peoples from their lands, which they have managed sustainably for generations. Tourism projects, such as the development of resort zones or the construction of stadiums for global sporting events, may lead to the forced eviction and arbitrary displacement of local communities. Urban renewal or “city beautification” projects can benefit local communities, yet they often result in those communities being forcibly evicted or displaced by economic pressures as renewed neighbourhoods become more desirable to wealthier groups.

VI. Potential consequences of development-induced displacement on the enjoyment of human rights

VIII. Conclusions and recommendations

63. Unlike displacement caused by conflict or disasters, development-induced displacement can be prevented through appropriate policy choices and by States fully implementing their existing human rights commitments. This requires a change in mindset, one that is centred on individuals and communities and empowers them to realize their right to development rather than paternalistically treating them as passive subjects whose agency is subordinate to State interests. The recommendations below are provided in that spirit.

A. Ensure meaningful disclosure, participation and consent

[…]

65. States and development actors should:

• (a) Ensure that information provided to affected populations is timely, is provided in a space and format that is physically, culturally and linguistically appropriate and accessible for all literacy levels, and is updated in advance of each phase of project planning and implementation;
• (b) Improve the quality of disclosure and consultation processes by providing disclosure and consultation venues that are accessible to all groups, including women, persons with disabilities, older persons, indigenous peoples and minorities, and by ensuring meaningful participation and continuous and good-faith consultation throughout all phases of the project cycle; (c) Seek the informed consent of, rather than merely engaging, affected populations by providing them with the opportunity to shape development and resettlement plans, propose alternatives or refuse projects entirely, in line with the right to development;
• (d) Facilitate access to legal and technical assistance to enable affected communities’ informed participation.