Understanding the Political Economy of Vanuatu

Decision making in favor of the public interest can be especially difficult in a very heterogeneous, fragmented, and relatively newly formed state such as Vanuatu. The technical, financial, and economic standards sought by development partners and recipient governments in development interventions are often subservient to local political determination.

Political economy analysis can strengthen the diagnosis of development problems, assessment of risks, and the design of more effective support, leading to better results.