By JOEL K ANDREW
Gender-based violence (GBV) continues to plague Papua New Guinea, affecting lives across all levels of society. In many parts of the country, GBV has become deeply rooted in cultural and social practices and is often accepted as normal behavior.
In the Upper Highlands provinces, where most communities follow a patrilineal system, women bear the greatest burden of domestic and family violence. Polygamy remains common, and male dominance is still widely practiced. While women are the primary victims, some men also face abuse but remain silent because society expects them to appear strong and superior.
GBV is not just a personal or family issue, it is a national crisis. Its effects extend into education, health, law and order, and governance. Children from broken homes often drop out of school, and tribal fights are sometimes triggered by domestic disputes. Corruption and lawlessness also thrive in environments where violence is normalized and accountability is weak.
Despite growing awareness, many GBV cases still go unreported or are poorly managed within the justice system. Survivors often lose hope due to long delays, lack of follow-up, or intimidation at the local level. Many offenders escape proper punishment, further weakening public trust in the justice process.
To address this national challenge effectively, experts and advocates are calling for a bottom-up approach that strengthens community-based justice mechanisms and links them to formal systems of law. This approach was strongly highlighted during a recent Gender-Based Violence Workshop held at the Lamana Hotel in Port Moresby.
The workshop, organized by ABC International Development (ABCID) through the Media Development Initiative (MDI), carried the theme “Safe Spaces, Strong Voices.” It brought together government agencies, non-government organizations, and media partners, including the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG), Regina Sagu Foundation, Voice for Change, Wantok Radio Light, and several major media houses.
A representative from Wantok Radio Light underscored the need for stronger cooperation between government institutions, community leaders, and churches. “The Government must work closely with local leaders, churches, and NGOs to properly address GBV. Real change begins in families and communities,” the representative said.
Mr. Tony Aiyok, from the Regina Sagu Foundation, raised concern about the lack of proper handling of GBV cases by police and courts. He said the justice system must treat these cases with urgency and integrity to prevent violence from escalating. Since its establishment in 2024, the foundation has assisted 36 GBV victims free of charge. Mr. Aiyok announced plans to expand the foundation’s services to other provinces but said financial limitations remain a major obstacle.
Participants at the workshop agreed that village court magistrates and local justice officers must be properly trained, equipped, and empowered, as they are often the first point of contact for GBV victims. Many rural communities rely entirely on village courts to mediate disputes and protect vulnerable women and children. Without adequate support from the Department of Justice and Attorney General, these local systems remain weak and inconsistent.
A summary of the discussions presented by the partnership coordinator Miss Tracey Madai emphasized that genuine collaboration among all responsible agencies is essential. Strengthening village courts, enhancing the capacity of local magistrates, and ensuring proper referral systems from community to national level were highlighted as critical steps forward.
Coordinator Madai also noted that rehabilitation for perpetrators is an important part of long-term prevention. Structured counseling and behavior-change programs can help offenders understand the consequences of their actions and reintegrate as responsible members of their communities.
The message from the workshop was clear that Papua New Guinea cannot end gender-based violence through awareness alone. The justice system, especially at the village court level, must be strengthened to deliver real accountability, protect victims, and rebuild community confidence.
Until that happens, the fight against GBV will remain an unfinished struggle in the heart of every community across the country.