By DALCY LULUA
The Papua New Guinea Law Society (PNGLS) has officially been reinstated as a full member of the Law Association for Asia and the Pacific (LAWASIA), marking PNG’s return to the regional legal community after years of absence.
The reinstatement was confirmed following a successful address by PNGLS President Hubert Namani during the LAWASIA Council Meeting held in Hanoi, Vietnam, on Saturday, October 12, 2025.
President Namani said the readmission signified PNG’s renewed commitment to promoting justice, strengthening the rule of law, and fostering meaningful collaboration across the Asia-Pacific legal community.
“Our readmission to LAWASIA opens new pathways for PNG lawyers to engage in international legal dialogue, access high-level professional development, and contribute to critical regional discussions affecting the rule of law and fundamental rights,” Mr Namani said.
In a major boost to the country’s legal standing, Port Moresby has been confirmed as the host city for the LAWASIA Environmental Law Conference in 2026.
The upcoming conference will bring together international legal experts, judges, academics, and policymakers to
discuss key issues such as environmental governance, climate justice, and indigenous land rights—areas where PNG is seeking to assert greater regional leadership.
According to the PNG Law Society, hosting the conference will not only showcase PNG’s legal perspectives but also highlight the country’s growing role in regional legal discourse.
As part of its reinstated membership, PNGLS members will now have access to LAWASIA conferences, workshops, and forums across the region. They will also have opportunities to present papers, participate in panels, and engage in collaborative research and advocacy on human rights, environmental law, and other emerging legal challenges.
Mr Namani said the development marks a proud and defining moment for PNG’s legal profession.
“This is a new chapter for our lawyers to connect, contribute, and learn from the wider regional network. We look forward to welcoming our colleagues from across the Asia-Pacific to Port Moresby in 2026.”
Further details on the LAWASIA Environmental Law Conference 2026 and participation opportunities for PNG lawyers will be announced by the Society in the coming months.