Research Note: Yavirau: A traditional Fijian fish drive as an example of culturally embedded community development

Abstract

A yavirau (traditional Fijian fish drive) is an ancient Fijian custom which has been adapted to today’s needs. Implemented and organised by a village community without external assistance, this highly this culturally specific custom is an example of development on a local level. According to theorists and practitioners working on development issues, such a strategy for Community Development (CD) is promising because it seizes current approaches as it fosters local, decentralised, cultural specific development and aims at a high level of local participation. This research note analyses a yavirau as an example of CD, showing its advantages as well as its limitations.

Keywords

• neo-traditionalism
• Fiji
• community development
• culture
• participation