Resettlement Action Plan (RAP)
Technical Explanation
A Resettlement Action Plan outlines how people physically or economically displaced by a project will be compensated, relocated, and assisted. It details eligibility for compensation, housing replacement, livelihood restoration measures, grievance redress mechanisms, and a timeline. Essentially, the RAP’s purpose is to ensure affected persons are not worse off (and ideally are better off) after resettlement, in line with international standards (e.g. IFC Performance Standard 5).
Main requirements
Required when a project (e.g. a new road, dam, or mine) necessitates land acquisition or relocation of homes/businesses. Needs comprehensive socio-economic surveys of affected people, consultations to choose resettlement sites or options, and alignment with local laws and lender requirements. A key requirement is buy-in from the community – the plan must be disclosed and discussed with those being resettled to address their concerns.