ABSTRACT
Access to land can change as a result of evolutionary changes as well as a result of state intervention. The latter takes effect through changes in institutional arrangements (including legal changes) and is a deliberate action commonly referred to as land reform. The psychological effect of rights to land should not be underestimated. Responsible stewardship of land and environment can be expected only if the peasant has been made responsible himself. Responsibility cannot be asked from peasants who themselves have no responsibilities. International donor organizations do link improved access to land with the establishment of a titling program and land registration. There is no indication that a growing awareness of private ownership by land titling will result in economic development and in conservation of resources. The formal component for 'change in access to land,' can be measured by the changing number of registered transactions.
