Radio and the redefinition of kastom in Vanuatu

Lissant Bolton

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    30 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    This paper traces the development of radio broadcasting in Vanuatu, arguing that radio was critical to the development of ideas of Vanuatu-as-nation among the residents of the archipelago. From its inception, radio broadcast kastom - material understood to derive from the place itself, such as local songs and stories - and in broadcasting it contributed to the development of a complex understanding of kastom itself. By this means kastom was defined as expressive of national unity as well as regional diversity, and as a basis of identity; the presentation of kastom on the radio has provided Islanders with a point of connection with the new context of the nation. In tracing the history and significance of the broadcast of kastom, the paper argues that radio developed a distinctive form in Vanuatu, not addressing a passive and private listener, but rather interacting with an audience that engaged with the radio through correspondence and other contributions, and through both sending and responding to service messages. In 1994 this was overturned by creation of the Vanuatu Television and Broadcasting Corporation, which was designed to conform with western commercial models of radio. The consequent cutting of kastom programs resulted in a significant and locally acknowledged disenfranchisement of rural Ni-Vanuatu.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)335-360
    Number of pages26
    JournalContemporary Pacific
    Volume11
    Issue number2
    Publication statusPublished - Sept 1999

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