Papua New Guinea’s civic environment is currently classified as ‘obstructed’ by the CIVICUS Monitor, indicating a range of concerns including harassment and threats against human rights defenders, restrictions on journalists, and the use of excessive force during protests, particularly those related to land and environmental rights.
Prime Minister James Marape, now in his second term, has faced criticism from organizations like Human Rights Watch for failing to improve PNG’s human rights record despite promises to combat corruption and discrimination against women. Marape has also continued to express criticism of the press since his reelection in August 2022.
In January 2024, Marape declared a 14-day state of emergency in the capital, Port Moresby, following violent riots that resulted in 16 fatalities. The unrest stemmed from protests by soldiers, police officers, and prison guards over unexplained deductions to their pay.
The UN Human Rights Office has urged the government to address escalating tribal violence effectively, particularly in the Highlands region, and engage in dialogue with provincial and local leaders to promote peace and respect for human rights. Tribal conflicts involving 17 groups have intensified since the 2022 elections, driven by disputes over land and clan rivalry.
Amnesty International reports that at least 55 men, previously detained on Manus Island as part of Australia’s offshore detention regime, lack work rights, sustainable income support, or access to medical care in Papua New Guinea.
Recent months have seen concerns over the use of criminal defamation laws to suppress expression, along with apprehensions regarding a media development policy’s potential impact on press freedom. Additionally, a media outlet faced criticism from the Prime Minister, while protests by security forces led to riots.