The main objectives of the project is a) Identify and examine the extent of privately-owned land being ‘underutilized’ and/or ‘abandoned’ in forested landscapes. b) Explore the degree, patterns and mechanisms of migrations’ contribution to such land use change. c) Examine either these observed changes are empowering or disempowering for ‘women who are left behind. d) Suggest policy, institutional configuration and intervention-related options for facilitating the empowerment of women.