Growth and social development in the Pacific Island countries

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to analyze the social development situation in the Pacific Island countries (PICs). It also aims to present the various social and economic policies that are directly linked to improving social indicators. Design/methodology/approach - The paper draws on the theoretical framework provided by the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development, which defines social policy as involving redistribution, production, reproduction and protection. The paper presents data on these four components. Findings - The paper shows that many PICs have managed to increase some of their social development indicators especially those relating to education. Yet they are also lagging behind on many fronts, such as health, water and sanitation, social protection, and inequality. Research limitations/implications - Issues of state capacity and governance linked to policy formulation and implementation are not addressed in this paper. More in-depth and empirical research could be undertaken to investigate the link between economic growth and social development. Originality/value - This paper has the merit of being able to synthesize social and economic data for the PICs and compare it with other small island economies.