An examination of literature concerning the Pacific island states reveals the links between conservation and the political, economic and cultural context. The role of conservation is influenced by new definitions of the mission of museums and cultural centres. Conservation fits within a context with a heavy emphasis on community services. Families and members of the comunity may have a role. Institutions may contain an unusual diversity of collections and the effect of the tropical environment is recognized. There is a strong history of international co-operation, both within the region and with other nations (Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States, France) and international organizations (ICCROM, UNESCO, the Pacific Islands Museums Association, organizations for achives). There is documentation of the growth of museums and upgrading of preventive conservation in the past 10 years. Most training has been achieved by means of short courses and internships. Conservation is usually only one component of technical and professional positions that include many other diverse roles. Issues of repatriation and access to collections elsewhere in the world are of growing interest.