Pacific Development Consulting Ltd. (PDC) has been engaged by the Department of Local Authorities (DLA), with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to finalize Vanuatu’s Decentralization Policy Framework. The work supports the Government’s effort to strengthen decentralization and improve public services for communities across the country.

The Decentralization Act, first introduced in 1980 and refined through subsequent amendments, provides the foundation for today’s reforms and highlights the long‑standing national commitment to strengthening local governance.

PDC will collaborate with government officials to refine the framework, strengthen its strategic direction, and ensure it reflects national priorities and stakeholder perspectives. The policy focuses on improving service delivery, empowering local authorities, increasing citizen participation, supporting balanced regional development, and strengthening trust and accountability in local governance.

This work supports Vanuatu 2030 | The People’s Plan by strengthening institutions and empowering communities to shape better services and more inclusive governance.

The engagement covers targeted analysis, stakeholder engagement planning, preparation of a decentralization discussion paper, and drafting of the final policy framework for the Council of Ministers.

“This effort reflects our deep commitment to working alongside government and development partners to build a more resilient and effective governance system for Vanuatu.” said Lauro Vives, Managing Partner at Pacific Development Consulting.

About Pacific Development Consulting Ltd.

Pacific Development Consulting is committed to supporting strong governance and effective public institutions across Vanuatu and the Pacific, working in partnership with government to advance sustainable, people‑centred reforms.

For media inquiries, please contact: Pacific Development Consulting Ltd.

Email: contact@pacificdevelopmentconsulting.com