In brief
Roy L. Prosterman, founder of Landesa, passed away at 89 while advocating for land rights in developing countries, improving lives across the globe.
Roy L. Prosterman, a notable lawyer and the founder of Landesa, a land rights organization, passed away on February 27 in Seattle at the age of 89. His mission was to reform land ownership, believing it essential for lifting rural impoverishment. Over nearly six decades, Prosterman collaborated with governments in 60 countries—including Vietnam, El Salvador, and India—to devise strategies for distributing farmland to impoverished families. Sometimes, this involved compensating landowners for large tracts, while at other times, the land was simply allocated to those in need.In an obituary published by Landesa, it was noted that millions globally benefited from Prosterman's impactful programs. Established in 1981, Landesa has played a crucial role in advocating for land access, highlighted by Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz in a book where Prosterman contributed. His work continues to inspire efforts for social justice and land equity worldwide, marking a profound legacy that helps shape agrarian economies for the better.
