The extent of greater individualisation is impossible to determine, but such conflicts over use emphasise, rather than downplay, the role of remittances. They are also the only two Pacific island states where remittances -which might be envisaged as ‘self-help’ aid - are greater than formal aid flows (Table 6.1). They play a more important role than in such significant migrant-sending countries as the Philippines, Bangladesh and Yemen. Remittances are very much the main source of income, hence, firstly, what happens to them is of considerable importance for development and, secondly, households and countries are necessarily anxious to ensure that remittances flows do not decline and preferably increase.