Social tenure

Social tenure refers to the various types of community-based or customary arrangements through which people hold, use, and manage land or resources. Unlike formal or legal property rights recognized by the government, social tenure often involves local customs, traditions, or informal agreements that define access and use. These arrangements are important for many communities, especially in rural or indigenous settings, as they provide security and define responsibilities without relying solely on formal legal systems. Understanding social tenure helps because it reflects real-world practices and cultural values surrounding land and resource use, often complementing or existing alongside formal property rights.