Most Pacific Island Countries inherited a dualistic ‘government’ system characterized by an externally imposed constitutional structure and system of government patterned after the Westminster model co-existing with traditional /indigenous system of governance. In some Pacific Island Countries features of the traditional system have been formally integrated into the constitutional structure as in the case of Vanuatu (Vanuatu Council of Chiefs). However, in some multi-cultural Pacific countries such as PNG and Solomon Islands, indigenous governance systems have been largely sidelined in the formal structure and processes of the national and local governments.

 

The importance of finding  a more lasting solution that can bring together an appropriate system of governance that combines features of the modern and indigenous governance system is expressed in the Pacific Plan which reads- “enhance governance mechanisms, including resource management, and in the harmonization of traditional and modern values and structures” as one of its priorities in the 2006-2008 strategy. Improved public service delivery at the local level requires cooperation and shared responsibilities between the central government (which follows modern government systems) and the sub-national systems (which predominantly follow the traditional systems). Improved public service delivery at the local level will require harmonized plans, budgets and systems between the national and sub-national governance systems. For these to happen, an integrated system and capacity to manage at the sub national level is a must. Hence, for effectiveness and efficiency of the delivery, transparency and accountability should become an integral part of the system.

 

There has been very little systematic analysis to assess lessons learned from past efforts of harmonization that can help inform new initiatives on how to effectively bring about greater harmonization of the modern and traditional systems in Pacific Island Countries. Understanding the role of communities and the interaction of traditional governance systems with the modern governance system can provide valuable insights in the formulation of policies that address some of the perceived incompatibility between the two systems. It can also inform the design of local service delivery systems and processes to make these responsive to the needs of local citizens and communities, and promote accountability of service providers.