The final validation workshop for Papua New Guinea’s revised National Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Policy 2025–2035 concluded today, marking an important milestone in the country’s commitment to promoting gender equality and advancing the rights of women.
The two-day workshop brought together representatives from government departments, development partners, non-governmental organisations, and civil society groups who have been actively involved in the review process of the original 2011 GEWE Policy. Their collective input has helped shape the direction and priorities of the new policy, which is now nearing completion.
Opening the workshop, Department Secretary Mr. Jerry Ubase underscored the importance of a whole-of-society approach to gender equality, saying the responsibility does not rest solely with government institutions.
“Gender equality is not just a government responsibility — it is a shared duty that must be owned by everyone,” Mr. Ubase said. “This policy must not only support our national development agenda, but also transform communities and uplift the lives of women across our country.”
He also stated that the aim is to have the policy ready for launch in time for Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence celebrations, underscoring the symbolic significance of the milestone.
The workshop opened with a detailed presentation by Ms. Nancy Kavop, Director of the Office for the Development of Women (ODW), who led the policy revision process. She and her team presented the draft document, outlining its core pillars and objectives while highlighting specific areas requiring stakeholder feedback.
Participants then broke into group sessions to review key elements of the draft, offering practical feedback, sharing experiences from the field, and making recommendations to strengthen the policy’s relevance, inclusivity, and impact.
On the second day, discussions focused on finalising the mechanisms that will support effective implementation, coordination, and monitoring of the policy. Stakeholders agreed on the importance of establishing strong governance and reporting frameworks, as well as ensuring consistent resourcing and cross-sectoral collaboration.
In her closing remarks, Ms. Kavop expressed deep appreciation to all participants for their time, energy, and expertise.
“This policy is for every woman in Papua New Guinea — in every province, district, and community,” she said. “Our shared commitment is what will bring this policy to life and make it meaningful to the lives of women and girls across the country.”
The finalised GEWE Policy 2025–2035 is expected to provide a robust roadmap for accelerating gender equality in PNG over the next decade. It will align with national development goals, international commitments, and the broader vision for a more inclusive and equitable Papua New Guinea.