article

Is Tonga's MIRAB economy sustainable?: a view from the village and a view without it

Pacific studies22 (3/4) • Published In 1999 • Pages: 137-166

By: Evans, Mike.

Abstract
This article is an analysis of the viability and development potential of the Tonga's so-called MIRAB (Migration, Remittances, Aid, and Bureaucracy) economy. From the nation-state perspective, the MIRAB economy dependent on multiple overseas linkages appears to be unsustainable. Also economists argue that remittances from abroad dampen incentive to develop the economy at home. Evans asks whether or not this is true. He argues that as long as the relationships between those at home and those abroad are maintained, along with a strong Tongan transnational identity, then the Tonga economy is viable, and should not be discounted.
Subjects
Gift giving
Production and supply
Internal trade
Foreign exchange
Visiting and hospitality
Household
Kindreds and ramages
culture
Tongans
HRAF PubDate
2006
Region
Oceania
Sub Region
Polynesia
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard; 2004
Field Date
unknown
Coverage Date
1956-1992
Coverage Place
Tonga
Notes
Mike Evans
Includes bibliographical references (p.163-166)
LCCN
84643929
LCSH
Tongans