Land reform is a key factor in determining the political, economic and social future of the transitional states of the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe. Despite the centrality of land reform to economic reform and political stability very little research has been done into the processes at work in post-communist states.
This book represents the first major study in this area. Utilizing extensive field work, unpublished materials, statistical data and interviews with land reform officials, the contributors explore the key issues including:
* historical issues that affect land reform
* the conduct of contemporary land reform
* an assessment of future trends.
With previous land reforms characterized by the state expropriation and nationalization, this important study explores moves to privatize land holdings. Examining the political, economic and social consequences for 11 states, this book illustrates the importance that successful land reform has for this transitional region.