Peasant participation in Costa Rica"s agrarian reform : a view from below

Results of statistical analysis of the data obtained and of pertinent secondary data are presented in this report. Chapters cover, in turn, demographic, socioeconomic, and political characteristics of the settlers and evidence of their attitudinal and behavioral support for the program. Settlers" feelings of relative satisfaction when comparing themselves with various nonbeneficiary groups and with their own previous situations are assessed and their political participation in government and privately organized activities is evaluated. The related question of settler trust in the government and the political process is then examined. It is concluded that although the reform program has on the whole been a positive experience for small farmers, they have made only limited economic progress. Further, a significant pattern of negativism is evident among Atlantic Basin settlers. Recommendations address the need to improve beneficiary capabilities to achieve economic progress through increased literacy and education and greater participation in cooperatives.