41 n n n n n n To NHRIs: n Include land conflict monitoring reports in the annual reports of the National Human Rights Institutions. This will serve to highlight the importance of the issue; it will also help to validate the collected data and information by CSOs. n Conduct independent field investigations of land conflicts where human rights are violated. n Promote the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGP BHR). Regional Summary: A Perspective Overview of Land Conflicts in Six Asian Countries n gender and culturally sensitive approaches, and respect for human rights. Check corruption, irregularities, and bribes at land administration, courts, and police stations. Fast-track the resolution of land-related cases pending in courts. In countries such as Bangladesh and Nepal, establish land tribunals or special courts to deal with the backlog of cases. Establish independent land dispute commissions to speed up the response to, and resolution of, land-related cases. For Bangladesh, establish an independent land commission for indigenous peoples in the plains, and strengthen the CHT Land Dispute Resolution Commission. Strengthen local mediation mechanisms for addressing local land conflicts, especially those involving civil cases at community level. Conduct capacity building programs for local mediators, as well as public awareness campaigns for local people to consider mediation over adjudication mechanisms. Ensure integrity, transparency and public access in land administration and in the management of land records. In the case of Nepal, generate accurate data on lands and property that were seized during the conflict period (1996-2006) so that these cases can be addressed, as they have the potential to create further tension and unrest. Strictly implement social and environmental impact assessments, and adherence to free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) of affected communities – as preconditions for all large-scale private and public landrelated investments and transactions. Harmonize various overlapping land laws and agencies that create confusion and conflict over land rights and entitlements. Institute effective mechanisms to resolve overlapping claims on land. Cease and desist from issuing tenure and resource use instruments that encroach on lands of indigenous peoples.