Effects of the Illegal Occupation of Communal Land on Peasant Families in Costa Irala, Quiindy, 2023

Abstract

The study characterized the effects of the illegal occupation of communal land on peasant families in Costa Irala, district of Quiindy, in 2023. A qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory design was used. Data were collected through 15 semi-structured interviews with heads of household and one focus group with members of the Neighborhood Commission. The findings show that the occupation reduced the area available for grazing and small-scale production, affected animal feeding and health due to the contamination of watercourses, intensified community conflict, and led to intimidation and legal complaints against local leaders. The study also identified a gap between the legal protection of communal lands and the institutional response, particularly regarding complaints submitted to Instituto Nacional de Desarrollo Rural y de la Tierra. It concludes that communal land is not only a productive resource, but also an economic, social, and cultural foundation for peasant life. Its occupation undermines family sustainability and requires timely, transparent state action aimed at protecting collective land use.