This paper discusses the distribution of
remittances to Kiribati by looking at the
socio-cultural elements of people and how these are linked to strategic-economic
decision-making when remittances are
received by families. Being employed on
foreign merchant or tuna vessels has great
economic advantages for Kiribati. One
of the main advantages is that overseas
employment is one of few employment
alternatives for the working age population
in Kiribati. Remittances sent back
serve not only as safety nets for seafarer
families, but people benefit through
informal channels of distribution. It will
be shown in this paper that and how
remittances have led to better living
conditions for families in Kiribati,
increased cash flow and some investment. On the outer islands, however, remittances are
often the only cash contribution for some
families and are mainly used for basic needs and community contributions.
