Revamping Land Registration for a Modern World: International Experts Highlight Progress and Promises of Digital Transformation
At the XXIII International Congress of Registration Law, taking place this week in Costa Rica, experts from around the globe are highlighting the crucial role of land registration systems in fueling economic growth and serving as a cornerstone of stability and security. The event, organized by the International Center for Registration Law (IPRA-CINDER), has served as a platform to showcase advancements in land registration technology and discuss strategies for overcoming challenges facing the sector.
## Indigenous Communities Lead the Way in Land Rights Protection
One of the standout examples presented at the congress was the innovative land titling system implemented by the Nisga’a nation in Canada. Stacy Maurier, a Canadian registrar, detailed the history and success of this system, which empowers the indigenous nation to own and govern their lands.
“This unique system brings legal security and order to indigenous communities,” explained Maurier, “and underscores the respect for their inherent rights.” The Nisga’a land titling office operates independently, managing land records distinct from provincial or national registries. This innovative approach has fostered transparency and stability, paving the way for economic development while ensuring the protection of indigenous land rights.
## Turkey: A Digital Pioneer in Land Registry
Another country demonstrating notable progress in land registration is Turkey. Fidan Elci, a Turkish registrar, outlined Türkiye’s impressive strides in digital transformation within its land registration system.
According to Elci, “Turkey is a leader in digital performance for land registrations within its continent, competing favorably with countries like Italy, the Netherlands, China, South Korea, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Peru.”
This digital revolution has streamlined the land registration process, improving efficiency and accessibility for citizens. Turkish authorities have successfully implemented a digital cadastre system, allowing for easy access to land information and facilitating optimized land administration.
## The Power of Technology in Land Registration
The congress provided a platform for experts to concur that incorporating technological solutions is vital to the continued advancement of land registration systems.
“Registration systems are essential drivers of economic development,” emphasized one attending expert. “Embracing technology allows us to create systems that are more efficient, transparent, and accessible to all citizens.”
The digitalization of land registries offers a range of benefits, including reduced costs, improved public access to information, and enhanced fraud prevention. Experts agreed that continued investment in technology and innovation is crucial to ensure land registration systems keep pace with evolving societal needs.
## International Collaboration: Sharing Best Practices and Guiding the Future of Land Registration
With over 300 land registration professionals from 28 countries in attendance, the International Congress of Registration Law served as a forum for collaboration and sharing best practices. During the event, experts delved into a wide range of topics, including maritime-terrestrial zones, artificial intelligence, data protection, digitalization, and intellectual property registration.
The congress underscored the importance of continued dialogue and international collaboration in advancing the field of land registration. By sharing knowledge, resources, and experiences, nations can build upon each other’s successes and collectively strive towards creating land registration systems that are efficient, equitable, and sustainable for generations to come.
What specific benefits has Turkey’s land registration digitization brought to rural communities?
## Revamping Land Registration for a Modern World: An Interview with Fidan Elci
**Host:** Welcome back to the programme. Today we’re delving into the exciting world of land registration and its role in shaping a more stable and prosperous future. Joining us is Fidan Elci, a Turkish registrar who recently presented groundbreaking developments at the XXIII International Congress of Registration Law in Costa Rica. Fidan, thank you for joining us.
**Fidan Elci:** It’s my pleasure to be here.
**Host:** At the congress, you highlighted Turkey’s impressive advancements in digitalizing its land registration system. Can you tell us more about these efforts and what makes Turkey a leader in this field?
**Fidan Elci:** Certainly. Turkey recognizes the vital role land registration plays in economic growth and societal stability. We’ve embraced digital transformation to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance accessibility for our citizens. We’re proud to be one of the leading nations in Europe in digital performance for land registrations, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with countries like Italy, the Netherlands, and even global players like China, South Korea, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Peru. [[1](https://ec.europa.eu/futurium/en/system/files/ged/final_version_article_for_scl_13_march_2018_pdf.pdf)]
**Host:** That’s truly impressive. Can you share some specific examples of how this digitization has benefited Turkish citizens?
**Fidan Elci:** Absolutely. Our digital initiatives have made the whole land registration process smoother and more transparent. Citizens can now access information and complete transactions online, saving time and reducing bureaucratic hurdles. This accessibility has been particularly beneficial for rural communities, who often faced challenges reaching traditional registration offices.
**Host:** What advice would you give to other countries looking to follow Turkey’s lead in modernizing their land registration systems?
**Fidan Elci:** Investing in technology is crucial, but it’s equally important to prioritize user experience and inclusivity. We need to ensure that digital solutions are accessible to all citizens, regardless of their technical literacy or location. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are also essential. Platforms like the XXIII International Congress of Registration Law provide invaluable opportunities to learn from each other’s experiences and best practices.
**Host:** Thank you, Fidan, for shedding light on Turkey’s progress in land registration and for sharing your insights. This is clearly a field ripe with innovation, and your work is setting a inspiring example for the world.
**Fidan Elci:** Thank you for having me.
