The Future of Land In Two Ejidos in Veracruz, Mexico: Access, Inheritance, and Sale

Objective: To analyze the perception of ejidatarios (male and female) regarding the distribution and future of land in two ejidos in the state of Veracruz, Mexico: Xoxocotla and Atoyac. Theoretical Framework: Land tenure from a gender perspective, agrarian distribution, inheritance, and sale of land in Mexico. Method: Qualitative methodology through 1) a survey, conducted in August 2024, with 50 ejidatarios (male and female) from the two ejidos; 2) 20 in-depth interviews with ejidatarios (male and female) members of the representation and oversight bodies. Results and Discussion: It was found that the main means of accessing land continues to be inheritance. It highlights that, despite the 1992 agrarian reform, which allowed the sale of ejido lands, they have remained in the hands of agrarian communities. Their roots and identity are maintained, and succession is ensured, ensuring their preservation. However, the idea that men are the natural heirs persists, which excludes women and limits their rights to the land. Implications of the research: It highlights the still-existing mechanisms of land ownership, where women continue to be disadvantaged, thus requiring policies that address existing gaps in rural areas. Originality/value: It contributes to analyzing what will happen in the future with ejido lands and the need for better conditions that allow women to become landowners.