This study examines the choices confronting us in terms of managing competing claims to land use in the 21st century. It synthesizes our knowledge of the processes by which land use changes occur today, in link with international and national drivers, national policies, and local contexts. It examines the strengths and shortcomings of current land use management systems and trends of land use change in countries at different levels of development and their implications for the prospects for international instruments based on land use change control. The report also suggests possible options to improve the sustainability of land management for the next decades.