Sustainable development at the policy-practice nexus: insights from south West Bay, Malakula Island, Vanuatu

Abstract

ABSTRACT The attainment of sustainable development in many contexts remains challenging. In rural/peripheral parts of many developing countries, the situation is exacerbated by globalization. Using an example from Vanuatu (South West Bay, Malakula Island), this study explains how Government policy around sustainable development is disseminated and the impacts it has on practice. In the study area, there is little direct knowledge of policy although it is often well aligned with traditional (kastom) practice. Three case studies illustrate the policy-practice nexus here. The sengtau system ensures all clan members benefit from the use of clan lands, a system currently threatened by a shift from subsistence agriculture to cash cropping. A hybrid land-lease system involves leasing part of clan lands for commercial kava production, a situation concerning some who see it as a betrayal of customary practice. The use of taboo/closure of fishing grounds to allow regeneration of seafood capacity appears driven by dietary change and cash availability. While such traditions are rooted in cultural practice, the inroads made by globalization and the market economy pose threats to their sustainability. This shows the importance of having national policy guide on-ground practice alongside support for subsistence agriculture and associated social safety nets.