Much of the forest estate in the global south is owned and directly managed by governments. State ownership of forests upon which communities rely can restrict the ability of local people to participate in decisions about how forests should be used and benefits shared. This interactive session features research from Madagascar and Tanzania on how strong use and management rights to trees and forests, alongside effective local governance and various public and private incentives, have catalyzed adoption of restoration practices by local communities. Panelists also will share the latest diagnostic tools for identifying where and how tenure security can be strengthened for FLR investments.