Land Regularization

Bibliometric Analysis of the Latin Scenario

Abstract

Objective – to investigate the international scientific literature on land regularization, focusing on Latin American countries.
Methodology – bibliometric analysis using the Scopus database, covering the period from 1990 to 2024, defined based on historical and regulatory milestones that directly influenced the configuration of Latin American urban territories and land tenure and use processes.

Originality/Relevance – provides an exploratory systematization of the scientific production on land regularization in Latin America, highlighting possible patterns, gaps, and trends.

Results – the findings reveal a significant increase in scientific output over the last decade, but with a strong asymmetry between volume and impact: Brazil stands out as the leader in publications, yet with limited international visibility. Debates are mainly concentrated on “land titling” and “property rights”, while integrated approaches to land governance and sustainability remain underexplored. Four main axes of discussion are identified — security of tenure, land governance, territorial justice, and socio-environmental impacts — but gaps persist in bridging theory and practice, particularly in connection with regional public policies.

Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – identification of the main thematic axes, actors involved, and predominant approaches in indexed literature, deepening the debate and providing inputs for future research.
Social and Environmental Contributions – reinforces the importance of land regularization debates for socio-spatial inclusion, access to urban services, and the promotion of sustainable practices in land use and management.