Introduction

This chapter outlines the trajectory of rural landscape changes from the 1990s onward following the fall of communist regimes in Eastern Europe, with a focus on Estonia. The most important driver of change has been the transition from the totalitarian system into democracy and from a centralised planned economy to a market economy. The chapter analyses traces of change in landscape left by the transition of the political economy (see Cosgrove, 1984) through four major themes: the politico-social context, landscape patterns, landscape practices and functions, and the image of country life.

First, the dynamic that underlies the rest of the analysis is the changing politico-social context, as a consequence of reforms such as free elections and reconnecting to global markets. One of the most significant processes that influenced rural and agricultural landscapes after the collapse of communism was long yearned for property reform, which dismantled the collective land-use system. Formerly large fields under common ownership were divided into privately owned small plots, often following the patterns of the 1930s. Restitution also had its downsides; the most remarkable of them was that frequently the new owners lived many kilometres away, and often lacked skills or interest needed to cultivate the land.

Second, the reforms had a direct influence upon landscape patterns, through depopulation of the countryside due to urbanisation. This resulted in abandonment of agricultural activities and production, especially in marginal areas during the mid 1990s.