Comprehensive reform program in the Republic of Vanuatu: a major challenge, through the eyes of a ni-Vanuatu

Abstract

Whether the Comprehensive Reform Programme (CRP) currently being implemented in Vanuatu can be judged a success or failure is far too premature to determine at this stage. This paper does not intend to go into any structural criticisms of the CRP as such. However, it seeks to provide a background commentary to complement the two major papers by Dr Terry Dwyer, 'Harmful tax competition and the future of offshore financial centres, such as Vanuatu' and Dr Patrick de Fontenay, 'The financial sector in Vanuatu: reform and new challenges'. The paper starts with a basic brief background of political, social and economic development since independence in 1980, leading to the introduction of the CRP and will briefly outline some of the major challenges and constraints in the implementation of this reform. Last, but not least, it will raise issues and ideas that could potentially move the process foreward in Vanuatu. Show more