The world's forests and forestry sector are shaped as much by
external economic, political, demographic and social trends as
they are by forces working within the sector itself. Both the
present and the future situation of forests must be considered
within the wider context of development, which has, as its
ultimate goal, the improved well-being of present and future
generations. Major trends during the period covered by SOFO 1997
(1995-1997) which have an effect upon forests include: continued
population growth and urbanization; higher rates of global
economic growth after the sluggish first three years of the
decade; continued progress of many previously centrally-planned
economies in their transition towards a market economy; and
trade liberalization. Over the last two years, the structure and
functions of public institutions, including forestry and related
departments, have continued to undergo significant changes.
Trends in decentralization, privatization of functions
previously assigned to the public se