Governance for Urban Land Regularization in Western Maranhão, Brazil

Authors

Yata A. G. Masullo, Universidade Estadual do MaranhaoFollow
Silas Nogueira Melo, Universidade Estadual do MaranhaoFollow
Dayana S. Maciel, Instituto Maranhense de Estudos Socioeconomicos e CartograficosFollow
Ticiany G. Palacio, Tribunal de Justiça do MaranhãoFollow
Antonio A. R. Ioris, Cardiff UniversityFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

0000-0003-3363-5208

Abstract / Resumen / Resumo

Brazil's urban trends have posed major challenges to the development and implementation of socio-spatial policies, given the need to guarantee quality in the provision of public services and reduce social, spatial and economic inequalities. In this article it is analyzed challenges, technical procedures and the performance of a land regularization programme in municipalities located in the Maranhão state. The program integrates technical, legal, and social actions to address urban informality and ensure secure land tenure. Despite progress, challenges such as limited municipal capacity and persistent socio-spatial inequalities hinder broader implementation. The findings highlight the need for inclusive, adaptive policies to mitigate land insecurity, promote equity, and advance Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) in Brazil.

Recommended Citation

Masullo, Yata A. G.; Melo, Silas Nogueira; Maciel, Dayana S.; Palacio, Ticiany G.; and Ioris, Antonio A. R. (2025) "Governance for Urban Land Regularization in Western Maranhão, Brazil," Journal of Latin American Geography 24(1): 112-140.
DOI: 10.1353/lag.2025.a962803
Available at: https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/15/article/962803