Papua New Guinea War: The Bougainville Crisis, Referendum and Independence

The Bougainville Crisis, also known as the Bougainville Conflict or Bougainville Rebellion, was a complex and protracted armed conflict that took place on the island of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea (PNG). 

It lasted from 1988 to 1998, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives and significant social and economic disruptions. The conflict was characterized by a struggle for autonomy and independence by Bougainvilleans, who sought greater control over their land and resources, particularly the Panguna copper mine, which was a major source of revenue for PNG.

Historical Background

Bougainville, an island province in Papua New Guinea, has a history of cultural distinctiveness from the rest of PNG. Bougainvilleans have their own languages, customs, and traditions that set them apart from the mainland. 

In the 1960s, mining activities, particularly the establishment of the Panguna copper mine by a foreign company, sparked tensions between Bougainvilleans and the PNG government. 

The mine brought environmental degradation, social disruption, and land disputes, leading to grievances among Bougainvilleans.

The Crisis Unfolds

In 1988, a violent conflict erupted on Bougainville, sparked by a dispute over royalties and the environmental damage caused by the Panguna mine. 

The conflict escalated into a full-scale civil war, with various groups taking up arms against the PNG government forces. 

The Bougainville Revolutionary Army (BRA), led by Francis Ona, fought for Bougainville's independence, while the PNG government responded with a military blockade, imposing a state of emergency and deploying armed forces to quell the rebellion.

Peace Process and Referendum

After a decade of violence, a peace process was initiated in the late 1990s, leading to the signing of the Bougainville Peace Agreement in 2001. 

The Agreement provided for a phased autonomy for Bougainville and a commitment to hold a referendum on independence. 

In 2019, the historic Bougainville Referendum was conducted, allowing Bougainvilleans to vote on their political future. 

An overwhelming majority of 98% voted in favour of independence, reflecting the strong desire for self-determination among Bougainvilleans.

Push for Independence

The result of the Bougainville Referendum has reignited the push for independence among Bougainvilleans. 

However, the path to independence is complex and faces challenges, including negotiations with the PNG government on key issues such as the:

• timing and process of independence,
• sharing of revenues from natural resources, and
• establishment of a viable and sustainable government structure in Bougainville.

Conclusion

The Bougainville Crisis has a complex history, rooted in cultural, environmental, and economic grievances. The conflict resulted in significant humanitarian impacts and loss of life. 

The Bougainville Referendum was a significant milestone in the peace process, reflecting the strong desire of Bougainvilleans for independence. 

All in all, many challenges remain on the path to independence, and sustained efforts are needed to ensure a peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable resolution to the Bougainville issue, taking into consideration the aspirations and interests of all stakeholders.

National Disaster Management Organization (NDMO) in Papua New Guinea: Membership and Responsibilities

Natural disasters can occur without warning, leaving a trail of destruction, and causing massive loss of life and property damage. Papua New Guinea (PNG) is one such country vulnerable to natural disasters, such as floods, landslides, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, droughts, and cyclones. 

In PNG, the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) is responsible for managing natural and human-made disasters. 

This article discusses the NDMO's membership, responsibilities, and provincial disaster committees in PNG.

Responsible Ministry

The Ministry of Provincial and Local Government Affairs is the government ministry responsible for disaster management in Papua New Guinea.

National Disaster Management Office (NDMO)

The National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) is responsible for coordinating the management of disasters and emergencies in the country. 

The NDMO is an organization established by an Act of Parliament, the Disaster Management Act Chapter 403 of 1987. It was previously known as the National Disaster and Emergency Services, and it is headed by a Director-General appointed by the National Executive Council (NEC). 

The NDMO has two basic branches: 

1. Reactive Branch, which deals with rapid response and operations, and 
2. Proactive Branch, which deals with long-term matters through research and analysis.

Each branch is headed by an Assistant Director.

National Disaster Committee (NDC)

The National Disaster Committee (NDC) is the decision-making body of any emergency or disaster matter established under Section 3 of the National Disaster Management Act of 1987. 

The NDC is responsible for approving and coordinating all activities necessary for the preparedness, response, and recovery phases of disaster management. 

The Chairman of the committee is appointed by the Prime Minister on the recommendation of the committee members.

Membership of NDC

The NDC membership comprises identified National line Departments with responsibilities related to Disaster Management, including, the:

• Secretary, Department of Provincial & Local Government Affairs - Chairman
• Commander of Defense Force
• Secretary for the Department of Defense
• Commissioner of Police
• Secretary, Department of Finance & Treasury
• Secretary, Department of Works & Transport
• Secretary, Department of Health
• Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs.

Co-opt Membership: The PNG National Disaster Management Act allows other Departmental Heads, NGOs, and national Churches as Co-opt members. The Foreign Missions are represented by UNDP.

NGOs

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) such as the Red Cross Society, Salvation Army, church groups, and the Council of Social Services play an essential role in disaster management in PNG. 

These organizations have representatives in most provinces and districts in the country and are active in disaster and emergency programs. 

Starting from mid-2000, only registered NGOs are permitted to involve themselves in any emergency or disaster situation, and their roles are shelter, food, health services, and water when responding to emergencies.

NDC Roles

The National Disaster Committee's primary roles, as stipulated in Section 6 of the NDM Act, include:

• Providing and rendering advice to the National Executive Council through the Minister on all matters relating to disaster.
• Approving and coordinating all activities necessary in regard to the preparedness, response, and recovery phases of disaster management.
• Assuming full and complete control in operations related to disasters.
• Providing and rendering financial assistance to disaster committees.

Stakeholders' Responsibilities

The actual duties of responses to emergencies or disasters are done by the respective Provincial Authorities in whose province the hazard or emergency takes place. 

Some examples of respective responsibilities by stakeholders include:

• Department of Health - responsible for all Health related matters, including water.
• Department of Agriculture and Livestock - responsible for all matters relating to agriculture and livestock.

The NDC also approves and coordinates all activities related to the preparedness, response, and recovery phases of disaster management.

 It assumes full and complete control over operations related to disasters and provides financial assistance to disaster committees.

Stakeholders and their Responsibilities

Various government departments and agencies have specific responsibilities in disaster management. For instance, the Department of Health is responsible for all health-related matters, including water.

The Department of Agriculture and Livestock is responsible for agriculture and livestock-related matters, including food. 

The Department of Transport and Works is responsible for engineering and structural matters on buildings, airstrips, bridges, and roads. 

Telikom (Telecommunication) is responsible for all communication matters, while the Department of Police is responsible for law and order to prevent people from taking advantage of the disaster or emergency situation to commit other offences.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) like the PNG Red Cross, Salvation Army, and church groups also play a vital role in disaster management. They are responsible for various needy areas, including shelter, food, health services, and water when responding to emergencies. 

However, only registered NGOs are permitted to be involved in any emergency or disaster situation starting from mid-2000, to ensure effective coordination and monitoring of short-term and long-term responses.

Sub-Committees

Adhoc sub-committees are formed to mitigate the disaster at hand, for instance, the Water Sub-Committee advises on water matters, while the Awareness & Preparedness Committee advises on the type of information to be disseminated to the public on how to best avoid heavy impacts of disasters. 

Membership is composed of technical and specialized government and non-government officers in disaster-related fields.

Provincial Disaster Committees

The Provincial Disaster Committees (PDC) are established under Section 9 of the NDM Act of 1987, and the membership is composed of the:

• Head of the Provincial Administration or in the case of NCD, the Manager of the National Capital District Commission as the Chairman. 
• Provincial Police Commander or in the case of NCD, Commander NCD/Central, 
• Provincial Works Manager or in the case of NCD, City Engineer, and 
• Provincial Health Advisor (Officer) or in the case of NCD, Health Officer. 

Other members include the Officer-In-Charge of Provincial Affairs, the Officer-In-Charge of Delegated Functions, NGOs or Co-opted Members, and the Provincial Disaster Coordinator as the secretariat.

Roles and Functions of Provincial Disaster Committees

The basic roles and functions of the Provincial Disaster Committees are as follows: To

• provide and render advice to the Provincial Administrator on all matters relating to disaster management
• prepare disaster contingency plans, disaster response plans and early warning systems
• coordinate the implementation of the provincial disaster plans
• monitor the disaster situation in the province and provide regular reports to the NDMO
• ensure that relief supplies and services reach the affected people
• ensure that post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction programs are implemented effectively

Conclusion (National Disaster Management Organization, NDMO)

Natural disasters can cause significant damage to infrastructure, loss of lives, and property damage. Effective disaster management is crucial to minimize the impact of disasters on individuals, communities, and the country. 

Papua New Guinea's National Disaster Management Organization (NDMO) has a crucial role in coordinating disaster management efforts in the country. The NDMO, together with other stakeholders, works to mitigate the effects of disasters and emergencies in PNG. 

The Provincial Disaster Committees, NGOs, and Co-opted members play an essential role in disaster management in PNG. The responsibilities of each stakeholder in disaster management are clearly defined under the NDM Act of 1987.

Cruises to Papua New Guinea 2023

Papua New Guinea is a unique and fascinating destination that offers an unforgettable experience for travellers who are looking for adventure, culture, and natural beauty. While Papua New Guinea is not a typical cruise destination, several cruise lines offer trips to this beautiful country. 

In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the cruise lines that visit Papua New Guinea, and what you should know before booking your trip.

(PNG is one of the best surfing hotspots in the Pacific. Check out this article for the Surfing Papua New Guinea)

Princess Cruises: A popular choice for Australian travellers

Princess Cruises is a well-known cruise line that offers a 14-day cruise to Papua New Guinea. Departing from Sydney, Australia, this cruise stops at several destinations in Papua New Guinea, including: 

• Alotau, 
• Kitava, 
• Rabaul, 
• Kiriwina Island, and 
• Conflict Islands. 

With its excellent onboard facilities and services, Princess Cruises is a great choice for travellers who are looking for comfort and convenience.

P&O Cruises: A variety of options to choose from

P&O Cruises is another popular cruise line that offers several trips to Papua New Guinea. 

Departing from Brisbane, Australia, these cruises range from 7 to 12 days in length and visit destinations such as Alotau, Kitava, Rabaul, and Kiriwina Island. 

P&O Cruises is a good choice for travellers who are looking for affordable options, as well as families with children.

Holland America Line: A premium experience

Holland America Line offers a 14-day cruise to Papua New Guinea, departing from Sydney, Australia. 

This cruise stops at 

• Alotau, 
• Kitava, 
• Rabaul, 
• Kiriwina Island, and 
• other destinations in Papua New Guinea. 

With its elegant and refined onboard atmosphere, Holland America Line is a great choice for travellers who are looking for a premium cruising experience.

Silversea Cruises: An Expedition to remote islands

Silversea Cruises offers a 12-day expedition cruise that explores the remote islands of Papua New Guinea. 

Departing from Cairns, Australia, this cruise visits the Louisiade Archipelago, Trobriand Islands, and other remote destinations in Papua New Guinea. 

With its focus on exploration and adventure, Silversea Cruises is a great choice for travellers who are looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Here are some facts about Australia and Papua New Guinea that will blow your mind, find out.

Coral Expeditions: A cultural and natural exploration

Coral Expeditions offers a 14-day expedition cruise that explores the cultural and natural wonders of Papua New Guinea. 

Departing from Cairns, Australia, this cruise visits destinations such as Alotau, Tufi, the Sepik River, Madang, and other locations in Papua New Guinea. 

With its focus on cultural immersion and nature exploration, Coral Expeditions is a great choice for travelers who are looking for an authentic and unique experience.

What to know before booking a cruise to Papua New Guinea

Before booking your cruise to Papua New Guinea, there are a few things that you should know. 

First, Papua New Guinea is a developing country, and some parts of the country may not be as developed as you may expect. Be prepared for limited infrastructure and facilities, especially in more remote areas.

Second, Papua New Guinea has a rich and diverse culture, and it's important to be respectful and mindful of local customs and traditions. Be sure to read up on the culture and customs of Papua New Guinea before your trip.

Finally, keep in mind that Papua New Guinea is a tropical country, and it can be hot and humid throughout the year. Be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear for the climate, and stay hydrated while exploring.

Conclusion

A cruise to Papua New Guinea offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travellers who are looking for adventure, culture, and natural beauty. With several cruise lines to choose from, there's a trip that's

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Information (scholarships for PNG students 2024)

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship offered to students from around the world who are interested in studying in New Zealand. The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other study-related costs.

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 2024

For Papua New Guinea (PNG) students who are interested in applying for the scholarship, the application process is simple and straightforward. 

The application portal for the 2024 tertiary Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships opens around February. For example, last year it opened on the 1st of February, 2023, and closed at midday on the 28th of February, 2023. 

How to Apply for Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 2024

To apply for the scholarship as a first-time applicant, PNG students need to follow the following steps:

Step 1: Confirm your eligibility

The first step is to confirm your eligibility by completing the online eligibility test. This will help you determine if you are eligible to apply for the scholarship. 

If the test confirms that you are eligible, you will receive an eligibility code.

Step 2: Register for a Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship account

Once you have received your eligibility code, you can register for a Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship account. 

You will need to enter your email address, and the system will check to make sure that it is not already being used. You will then need to complete the rest of your account details and select ‘Register’.

Step 3: Set password for your Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship account

You will receive an email to set a password and complete the registration process. Remember to check your spam folder in case automated messages are filtered.

Step 4: Complete and submit your application before the closing date

Using your Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Account, you can access the online application system anytime between the opening and closing dates for your country. 

Application Prerequisites

Before you apply, ensure you have all the necessary information and documents, including your academic transcripts, English language proficiency test scores, and a personal statement. 

Also, ensure your answers make sense, use correct English grammar, punctuation, and spelling, and keep your answers concise within the maximum character limit specified on the form. 

Importantly, do not cheat or plagiarize as the scholarship committee will reject your application.

It is also essential that you use a valid email address when submitting your application as the scholarship committee will communicate with applicants by email. Check your email regularly and reply promptly to any communication from the scholarship committee. 

Further information for PNG Applicants

In case you have any unanswered questions about the scholarship, you can visit the scholarship website to find answers to common questions. However, if you still have questions, you can use the contact form provided on the website to send an enquiry.

PNG students who are interested in studying in New Zealand can apply for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship by following the above steps. The scholarship provides an opportunity for students to access quality education in New Zealand and gain a competitive edge in their future careers.