Papua New Guinea at 50: A Nation Rich in Resources

Resilienceapac – Papua New Guinea marked 50 years of independence on September 16, 2025, a moment both celebratory and sobering. Despite being one of the most resource-rich nations in the Pacific with vast deposits of minerals, oil, and natural gas its communities continue to face deep-rooted development challenges. The gap between wealth and wellbeing remains wide, with many citizens lacking access to basic infrastructure, quality education, and essential healthcare.

Law enforcement in Papua New Guinea remains weak in many rural regions, and widespread corruption continues to block systemic reform. Violence, particularly against women and marginalized groups, is alarmingly high. Reports show that nearly two-thirds of women in the country have experienced some form of violence, reflecting a broader breakdown in protection and accountability.

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Reformers Call for Decentralization

Prominent national figures, including Dame Meg Taylor and former Prime Minister John Momis, are pushing for a bold shift: decentralization. They argue that true progress requires putting power and decision-making in the hands of local communities. After decades of centralized governance, they believe it is time for local leaders to take the lead in shaping policies that reflect the lived realities of their people.

These reformers emphasize that investing in youth and education is not only urgent but essential. Papua New Guinea’s large, growing young population presents both a challenge and an opportunity. With the right support, it can become the driving force of national transformation.

Towards Inclusive Community Development

The road ahead for Papua New Guinea must focus on more than resource extraction. Real progress depends on strengthening institutions, empowering women, and building community-based programs that respond to local needs.

As the nation reflects on its past 50 years, the message is clear: justice, equity, and inclusive development must take center stage. Papua New Guinea’s future depends not just on what lies beneath its soil but on the strength and voice of its people.

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