The Indigenous World 2025: Papua New Guinea

Written on 25 April 2025. Posted in Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a country in Oceania that covers an area of 462,840 km², and the eastern half of the Island of New Guinea and nearby islands. According to the National Statistics Office, as of 2021, it had a population of approximately 11.78 million across 22 provinces.^[1] Bougainville Island, which geographically forms part of the Solomon Islands but politically and administratively falls under PNG, became a self-governing region in 2004. The Papua New Guineans of Papua New Guineaare the original inhabitants, with distinct culture, histories and identities and a strong connection to the land, which is regarded as the source of life, identity, and spirituality. There are over 840 languages spoken in the country^[2] and PNG is considered the most culturally and linguistically diverse country in the world.

PNG is rich in natural resources such as gold, copper, silver, oil, gas, and timber, which make up the majority of the nation’s economy. Its key international exports include natural gas, gold, copper, palm oil, nickel, crude petroleum, lumber, refined petroleum, fish and coffee.^[3] The nation is facing many challenges, including an estimated 39.9% of the population living below the poverty line.^[4] Further, only an estimated 20.9% of the population has access to electricity.^[5] There are also issues around corruption and environment degradation,^[6] and violence is a problem, in particular gender-based violence.^[7]

Climate change is significantly affecting PNG, impacting its Indigenous population and the country’s development and well-being. The country is facing rising sea levels, coastal and land erosion, saltwater intrusion, coral bleaching, extreme weather events, and health issues, affecting Indigenous communities’ lives, livelihoods, food security, health, and culture. Despite these challenges, PNG continues to contribute to global greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from deforestation, land-use change, and the energy sector, with land use, land-use change, and forestry accounting for approximately 70% of its emissions. PNG also emits carbon dioxide from the energy sector, mainly from the combustion of fossil fuels for electricity generation, which accounts for 80% of the total installed electricity capacity.^[8]

The Government of PNG was absent from the vote on the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) in September 2007 and has not taken any action to change this. Furthermore, PNG did not ratify the International Labour Organization’s Convention Number 169 (ILO169).

This article is part of the 39^th edition of The Indigenous World, a yearly overview produced by IWGIA that serves to document and report on the developments Indigenous Peoples have experienced. The photo above is of an Indigenous activist Funa-ay Claver, a Bontok Igorot, standing alongside Indigenous youth activists and others. They are protesting against the repressive laws and human rights violations suffered through the actions and projects of the Government of the Philippines and other actors against Indigenous Peoples at President Marcos Jr’s national address on 22 July 2024 in Quezon City, Philippines. The photo was taken by Katribu Kalipunan ng Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas and is the cover of The Indigenous World 2025 where this article is featured. Find The Indigenous World 2025 in full here

The year 2024 was a pivotal one for Indigenous youth in Papua New Guinea (PNG). As the country navigates the complexities of modernity and tradition, the role of Indigenous youth has become increasingly significant. As reported in The Indigenous World 2024,^[9] multiple persistent threats remain relevant for Indigenous communities in PNG, including land disputes, resource extraction, limited access to services, discrimination, and violence. These interconnected issues have a profound intergenerational impact. This report aims to provide an overview of the main activities, decisions, and updates related to Indigenous Peoples’ rights in PNG throughout 2024, with a particular focus on the contributions and challenges faced by Indigenous youth.

Legislative changes affecting Indigenous Peoples

In 2024, several legislative changes impacted Indigenous communities in PNG. Notably, the government introduced amendments to the Land Act,^[10] aimed at providing better protection for Indigenous land rights. These amendments have been welcomed by many Indigenous groups, as they offer stronger legal frameworks to prevent land grabbing and ensure that land-use decisions involve the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) of Indigenous communities.

Additionally, new regulations were implemented to control the activities of the extractive industries. These regulations mandate that companies operating in Indigenous territories must adhere to stricter environmental standards and engage in meaningful consultations with Indigenous communities. This move is seen as a positive step towards safeguarding the environmental and cultural heritage of Indigenous lands.

Good policies, programmes and practices

Several initiatives have been launched to support Indigenous youth in PNG. One notable programme is the Urban Youth Empowerment Project, which focuses on providing education and vocational training to young people in remote Indigenous communities. This initiative has helped bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern skills, enabling youth to contribute more effectively to their communities while also pursuing personal development. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have also played a crucial role in supporting Indigenous youth as the PNG Indigenous Youth Network has been instrumental in organizing workshops and seminars that promote leadership skills, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship among young people. These efforts have empowered youth to take active roles in their communities and advocate for their rights on national and international platforms.

National and local events

Throughout 2024, several significant events highlighted the contributions of Indigenous youth in PNG. The NCD Indigenous Youth Summit and Expo 2024, held in Port Moresby,^[11] brought together young leaders from across the country to discuss issues such as climate change, cultural preservation, and economic development. The summit provided a platform for youth to share their experiences, learn from each other, and develop strategies for addressing common challenges.

At the local level, various cultural festivals celebrated the rich heritage of Indigenous communities. These events not only showcased traditional dance, music, and crafts but also provided opportunities for intergenerational dialogue. Elders and youth came together to exchange knowledge and strengthen their cultural bonds, reinforcing the importance of preserving Indigenous traditions.

International processes and Indigenous involvement

PNG's Indigenous youth have also been active participants in international processes. In 2024, representatives from PNG attended the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII),^[12] where they highlighted the unique challenges facing Indigenous youth in their country. Their participation underscored the importance of including youth voices in global discussions on Indigenous rights and sustainable development. Moreover, PNG hosted a visit from the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. During this visit, Indigenous youth had the opportunity to engage directly with the Special Rapporteur, sharing their concerns and aspirations. This interaction not only raised awareness about the situation in PNG but also strengthened the youth’s capacity to advocate for their rights at the international level.

Role of Indigenous women and youth

Indigenous women and youth have been at the forefront of many initiatives aimed at promoting social and economic development in PNG. Women, in particular, have played a crucial role in preserving traditional knowledge and practices, while also advocating for gender equality and women’s rights. Youth, on the other hand, have been instrumental in driving innovation and change within their communities. One notable example is the establishment of the Indigenous Women’s and Youth Cooperative, which focuses on sustainable agriculture and handicrafts. This cooperative has provided economic opportunities for women and youth, enabling them to generate an income while preserving their cultural heritage. The success of this initiative has inspired similar projects in other Indigenous communities across PNG.

General outlook

Looking ahead, the outlook for Indigenous youth in PNG is both promising and challenging. On the positive side, there is growing recognition of the importance of youth participation in decision-making processes. The government and various stakeholders are increasingly involving young people in policy discussions, ensuring that their voices are heard and their perspectives considered. However, challenges remain. Climate change continues to pose a significant threat to the livelihoods of Indigenous communities, particularly those dependent on natural resources. Additionally, the migration of youth to urban areas in search of better opportunities remains a concern, as it can lead to a loss of cultural identity and traditional knowledge. To address these challenges, it is crucial to strengthen intergenerational dialogue and collaboration. Elders and youth must work together to find solutions that balance the preservation of cultural heritage with the demands of modern life. By fostering mutual respect and understanding, Indigenous communities can build a resilient future that honours their traditions while embracing progress.

The year 2024 has demonstrated the vital role of Indigenous youth in shaping the future of PNG. Through their active participation in local, national, and international arenas, they have shown that they are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also the changemakers of today. By strengthening traditions and embracing innovation, Indigenous youth are paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for all. This comprehensive overview highlights the key developments and contributions of Indigenous youth in PNG throughout 2024.

Cressida Kuala (she/her) is an Indigenous Ipili woman from Porgera District in the Enga Province of Papua New Guinea. She is the founder and CEO of Porgera Red Wara River Women's Association Incorporated (PRWWA INC); was selected as a Pacific Indigenous Knowledge Holder, 2023; is a Business and Human Rights Advocate, a frontline Women’s Rights Defender, and an active Environment Defender.

This article is part of the 39^th edition of The Indigenous World, a yearly overview produced by IWGIA that serves to document and report on the developments Indigenous Peoples have experienced. The photo above is of an Indigenous activist Funa-ay Claver, a Bontok Igorot, standing alongside Indigenous youth activists and others. They are protesting against the repressive laws and human rights violations suffered through the actions and projects of the Government of the Philippines and other actors against Indigenous Peoples at President Marcos Jr’s national address on 22 July 2024 in Quezon City, Philippines. The photo was taken by Katribu Kalipunan ng Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas and is the cover of The Indigenous World 2025 where this article is featured. Find The Indigenous World 2025 in full here

Notes and references

^[1] National Statistical Office of Papua New Guinea. “Population Estimate.” Accessed 27 December 2024. https://www.nso.gov.pg/statistics/population/

^[2] Data Page: Living Languages. Our World in Data (2024). Data adapted from Summer Institute of Linguistic (SIL) International. Accessed 27 December 2024. https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/living-languages

^[3] National Statistical Office of Papua New Guinea. “Economy: Gross Domestic Products.” Accessed 12 January 2024. https://www.nso.gov.pg/statistics/economy/gross-domestic-products/gross-domestic-products-2016-2022/

^[4] World Bank. “Poverty & Equity Brief: Papua New Guinea.” April 2020. https://povertydata.worldbank.org/sites/default/files/2020-04/PEB_PNG.pdf.

^[5] Human Rights Watch. “World Report 2024: Papua New Guinea,” Human Rights Watch, 13 January 2024. https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2024/country-chapters/papua-new-guinea.

^[6] Doherty, Ben and Lyanne Togiba. 2021. “Mining in the Pacific: a blessing and a curse.” The Guardian, 7 June 2021. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/jun/07/mining-in-the-pacific-a-blessing-and-a-curse

^[7] According to the 2022 Papua New Guinea Human Rights Report of the United States Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, “Significant human rights issues included credible reports of: unlawful or arbitrary killings by police; torture and cases of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment by police; harsh and life-threatening prison conditions; serious acts of government corruption; lack of investigation of and accountability for gender-based violence; trafficking in persons; the criminalization of consensual same-sex sexual conduct between men; and extensive child labor, including the worst forms of child labor.” https://www.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/415610_PAPUA-NEW-GUINEA-2022-HUMAN-RIGHTS-REPORT.pdf

^[8] CIA, 2021. Papua New Guinea, Energy Sector. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/papua-new-guinea

^[9] See: Kuala, Cressida. “Papua New Guinea”. In the Indigenous World 2024, edited by Dwayne Mamo 528-534. IWGIA, 2024. https://iwgia.org/en/png/5399-iw-2024-papua-new-guinea.html

^[10] Independent State of Papua New Guinea. “Land Act 1996”. 1996. http://www.paclii.org/pg/legis/consol_act/la199648/

^[11] UNFPA. “National Youth Parliament 2024 officially commences this week in Port Moresby. 20 November 2024. https://png.unfpa.org/en/news/national-youth-parliament-2024-officially-commences-week-port-moresby; And: UNDP. “Papua New Guinean Youth Unite for the National Mock Youth Parliament 2024”. 21 November 2024. https://www.undp.org/papua-new-guinea/news/papua-new-guinean-youth-unite-national-mock-youth-parliament-2024

^[12] United Nations. “UNPFII Twenty-Third Session: 15-26 April 2024”. 2024. https://social.desa.un.org/issues/indigenous-peoples/unpfii/23rd-session

Tags: Land rights, Youth, International Processes