maareformi

Maareformi, or land reform, is a policy aiming to change the ownership and tenure of agricultural land. It typically involves redistributing land from large estates to tenant farmers or landless households, with objectives such as improving equity, boosting agricultural productivity, securing smallholders’ livelihoods, and promoting rural development. Instruments commonly used include expropriation or redistribution of titles, land ceilings or limits on ownership, tenancy reform, and accompanying measures such as access to credit, extension services, and rural infrastructure.

Historically, maareformi has been implemented in many countries at different times in response to social upheaval, modernization goals, or post-conflict reconstruction. In some cases, reforms were driven by revolutionary or socialist ideals; in others, by a desire to reduce rural poverty and political unrest. The policy is often associated with large-scale changes in land tenure rather than piecemeal improvements to tenancy.

In Finland, land reform is linked to the country’s early 20th-century history, particularly after independence and the civil war, when a considerable portion of land was redistributed to tenants and smallholders. Across other regions, reforms have occurred in diverse contexts, from post-war Europe to Latin America, Africa, and post-colonial states, with varying design and outcomes.

Effects of maareformi are debated. When implemented with clear legal frameworks, adequate compensation where required, and supportive measures (credit, training, infrastructure), reform can reduce inequality and support rural livelihoods. Challenges include administrative complexity, tenure insecurity during transition, fragmentation of land, and mixed economic impacts.