The Pacific Islands Model Population and Housing Census Form was developed following a recommendation made at a meeting of Heads of National Statistical Offices in Nadi, Fiji Islands, in 1997. The Model Form was designed by the UNFPA Country Support Team (UNFPA CST), in conjunction with other agencies working in the region, national statistical offices and the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

The Model Form has now been tested and discussed extensively although each country or territory needs to view the Model Form questions carefully and adapt them to accommodate local conditions. This handbook begins with an overview of the general layout and design of the Model Form, and discusses issues such as data entry and translation of questions. It then considers each question in detail. This includes a discussion of possible modifications that could be made to each question, and other questions that might be included to produce different or additional data. 

This manual is a collaborative effort between the Secretariat of the Pacific Community and  the United Nations Population Fund, Sub-Regional Office, Suva, Fiji Islands.  It attempts to simplify RH language for the average RH worker in the Pacific Island region. At the same time, it combines within one book, sections on RH indicators and how to use RH information and plan for RH activities.

This manual was prepared with inputs from Suva-based RHIS personnel and health workers.