Enhancing the Role of Government in the Pacific Island Economies

Following the East Asian financial crisis, the Pacific Island Member Countries (PMC) appear to be headed toward recession. The governments are increasingly aware that state-led growth, based upon high levels of public investment and financial aid, has not substantially increased per capita income or the quality of life. Building a more resilient economic base has become a matter of political urgency. This report discusses how the PMC's development agenda could be implemented and emphasizes interlinking themes about enhancing the role of government.