ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses the Pacific sector to build culturally relevant community knowledge, policy frameworks and practice approaches. It describes what community development is and means in the context of the Pacific. Community development practice in the Pacific is a communal process aligning with collectivist values in traditional communities. “Community development” focuses on a process of working alongside, directed by the community, around issues that the community have identified. One of the distinguishing features about community development is its values and principles which inform practice. The views of community members and community leadership are integral in defining the development path of specific communities as this ensures that the visions, expectations and plans of the community are captured. The chapter highlights some aspects that undermine valuable cultural assets that have been the strength and foundation of Pacific Island communities and clearly articulates the need for Pacific communities to be the drivers of their own approach to community development.
