How does customary land ownership work in Vanuatu?

In Vanuatu, land ownership is deeply rooted in customary collective ownership, which serves as a fundamental pillar of ni-Vanuatu culture. Under the country's constitution, land cannot be permanently alienated from its indigenous custom owners and their descendants.12

Rather than being viewed solely as an economic resource, land is considered the physical embodiment of a metaphysical connection to the past. This identification with specific tracts of land is expressed through the Bislama phrase man ples and remains central to the identity of rural villagers.1

While the constitution prohibits the sale of land to foreigners, the government has permitted the leasing of land for periods of up to 75 years to accommodate foreign development, such as resorts. These leasing arrangements have raised significant ethical concerns, as some contracts include provisions that could effectively lead to the permanent loss of land for customary owners if they are unable to pay the full costs of developments at the end of the lease term.2