Ukraine’s Land Reform Enters a Phase of Complex Institutional Work

Interview with Andriy Martyn

According to Офіс реформ: In a conversation with AgroPolit, Doctor of Economics Andriy Martyn discussed the state-run Land Bank, its potential operational directions, and upcoming land-related legislation. He pointed out that the land reform agenda is now shifting toward intricate institutional efforts, requiring more meticulous and technical regulatory work. This will focus on improving the quality of cadastral data, enhancing management practices, and strengthening the state’s accountability as both a landowner and regulator.

Martyn, who serves as Senior Project Manager for Land Reform at the Office of Recovery and Reforms of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, emphasized the need for a fair balance among:

• budgetary interests,
• defense needs,
• citizens' rights,
• the growth of agricultural businesses and rural communities.

The Office of Recovery and Reforms is part of the comprehensive technical assistance program “Architecture of Recovery and Reforms in Ukraine” (URA), supported by the EBRD’s Multi-Donor Fund for Stabilization and Sustainable Development of Ukraine.

Andriy Martyn’s remarks highlight the ongoing relevance of land reform in Ukraine, a key component of the country’s economic recovery.

Andriy Martyn

Amid the war and the need for stability, effective land resource management has become critically important for safeguarding citizens’ rights and advancing the agricultural sector. The next steps in reforming land legislation could significantly reshape Ukraine’s economic landscape.

As Ukraine navigates the complexities of land reform, it is also imperative to consider the broader implications of its EU aspirations. The ongoing need for reforms extends beyond land management, particularly as overhauling the labor market becomes essential for meeting European standards by 2030. This interconnected approach will not only bolster economic recovery but also ensure that Ukraine is well-prepared for future challenges.