As Governor of Port Moresby, Capital City of Papua New Guinea, and Chairman of the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, I warmly welcome the Post Courier’s decision to dedicate a weekly publication focus on campaigning against gender-based violence (GBV) in PNG and promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment.
This is a landmark move by one of Papua New Guinea’s leading newspapers, and it couldn’t come at a more critical time.
As we mark the start of our country’s next 50 years, ending GBV and achieving gender equality are urgent priorities that will define our nation’s progress.
Gender-based violence is a grave human rights violation and a major development challenge holding PNG back.
It undermines the potential of half our population, affects families, communities, and our entire nation.
As we strive for sustainable development and prosperity, empowering women and girls is not optional—it’s essential.
Here are some statistics highlighting the significance of the challenge Papua New Guinea (PNG) faces regarding gender-based violence (GBV):
● 47.6% of women and girls have experienced intimate partner violence, with higher prevalence in the Highlands and Islands regions.
●65% of women aged 15-49 have experienced some form of GBV*, making PNG one of the most dangerous places for women and girls.
● 56% of women between 15 and 49 have experienced physical violence, while 28% have experienced sexual violence.
●1.5 million women and girls experience GBV annually, tied to intercommunal conflict, domestic abuse, and other causes.
●50% of girls are at risk of becoming involved in sex work or internal trafficking, with many forced into marriage from 12 years old under customary law.
●67% of wives have been beaten by their husbands, with close to 100% in the Highlands Region.
● 86% of women have been beaten during pregnancy.
These statistics underscore the urgent need to address GBV in PNG.
The Post Courier’s commitment to shine a light on this issue, amplify survivors’ voices, and advocate for change is a vital contribution.
Their platform will help drive awareness, break the silence, and push for action to protect women and girls.
I commend the Post Courier for stepping up. Their campaign aligns with the work of the National Parliament, the City of Port Moresby, and all stakeholders committed to ending GBV and closing the gender gap in PNG.
Let’s rally behind this effort. Together, we can build a safer, equal, and prosperous Papua New Guinea where everyone—women, men, girls, boys—can thrive.
The next 50 years are ours to shape. Let’s make gender equality and women’s empowerment a defining achievement for our country and our people in next 50.