Which one of the following has been an impediment to urban development in most island states of the southwest Pacific?

a. Few people have automobiles
b. Socialist regimes discourage the growth of cities
c. Land is held as a communal resource by traditional owners
d. The principles of market capitalism are completely lacking

c.Land is held as a communal resource by traditional owners

Explanation:

Island states of the southwest Pacific such as Australia, Cook Islands, Vanuatu etc have lands which are majorly communal. This means the lands are owned by indigenous communities in which the traditional ruler is the head. Since the Land is held as a communal resource by traditional owners there is an hindrance to urban development in the area.