Port Moresby, 20 February 2025 — Papua New Guinea’s Department of National Planning and Monitoring (DNPM) held a focused consultation with the World Bank last week to discuss data contributions for PNG’s upcoming Second Voluntary National Review (VNR) 2025 report on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The meeting brought together DNPM’s First Assistant Secretary for Policy and Budget, Mr. Lawrence Duguman, World Bank Senior Country Economist Ms. Reshika Singh, ESCAP consultant Ms. Apa Parunga, and the DNPM VNR Secretariat team. Discussions highlighted the critical role of accurate data, evidence, and analysis in demonstrating PNG’s SDG progress and informing policy recommendations.
The VNR process involves five phases:
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Initial Preparation – Setting coordination mechanisms and review frameworks
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Stakeholder Engagement – Ensuring inclusive participation
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VNR Preparation – Data collection and analysis for drafting the report
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High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) Presentation – PNG to present progress in July 2025
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Post-VNR – Implementing recommendations and strengthening policies
PNG is currently in the data collection phase, engaging development partners and stakeholders to provide comprehensive inputs for the report.
The consultation with development partners began on 19 February 2025 and will continue in the months ahead. DNPM is also organizing technical workshops to build capacity for effective VNR reporting:
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DNPM Refresher Workshop for Focal Points – 3 March 2025 at Gateway Hotel
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SDG Tracker Workshop – 6 March 2025 at Lamana Hotel
These sessions will offer guidance and support to stakeholders involved in data gathering and reporting.
The VNR process is a vital platform for PNG to showcase its SDG achievements, address challenges, and mobilize international support for sustainable development. The government calls on all partners and communities to actively participate to ensure the 2025 report reflects the true state of development across PNG.