Invasive species are a major threat to Pacific islands, yet technical solutions alone are insufficient without community trust, inclusion and culturally grounded engagement. Drawing on new evidence from Vavaโu, Tonga, a recent research traces a clear line between culturally grounded engagement and sustained biosecurity action in Pacific island communities. By having the right tools, the right people and the approaches are important when working with Pacific Island communities, the Vฤtalanoa approach is one of those adaptable Pacific grounded approaches.
The research, undertaken by SPREP led Pacific Regional Invasive Species Management Support Service (PRISMSS) demonstrates how Vฤtalanoa, a relational, Pacific led methodology, embeds inclusive engagement throughout the entire project cycle. When communities see their knowledge reflected, receive feedback and are actively involved, regardless of age, gender, education, or ability, participation increases, data quality improves, governance becomes more relevant and pathways to behaviour change strengthen.
