Topical issues of land ownership policy

Kapronczai, István

Keywords: land ownership policy, land ownership, land lease, land use, inheritance

The questions of land ownership and the relevant policy have been highly topical issues for the agricultural professionals ever since Hungary’s accession to the European Union. Articles and presentations repeatedly state that we should prepare for the challenges to be brought about by the liberalisation of land sale. What will happen when the derogation barring foreigners from acquiring land expires? What will happen if business partnerships are no longer prohibited from purchasing land? We have seven years to answer these challenges, and six have already passed. During this time, the problems were raised multiple times but nothing else was done! Political players have come to a stalemate. This is the 24th hour. Early in the autumn, the new government will need to propose a land bill to the Parliament – preferably based on consensus(!) – which offers protection from the undesired effects of making land sale and purchase arrangements conform to Community standards.
Is there a chance that an agreement can be reached, though? Hardly likely among politicians! What is more, the community of agricultural economists is also rather divided on the issue of land, as our community is also affected by interests and ingrained prejudices. Still, a professional debate and an honest exchange of opinions is necessary, and may outline a potential agreement supported by a wide range of compromises. We all must realize that Hungarian agriculture needs to have a clear vision, or strategy, if you like. This essentially requires a land ownership policy which is intended to be stable for a long time to come.
This article is intended to raise questions and offer observations – even though they might not all be perfectly polished – which prompt responses and engender a debate.

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