Papua New Guinea stands at a pivotal crossroads as it approaches the nation’s 50th anniversary of independence. A forthcoming multigenerational discussion forum promises to harness over 80 years of collective experience to chart a course for the country’s next half-century.
This unique forum will convene voices from the past, present, and future, bringing together three generations of Papua New Guineans—from elders who witnessed early reforms, to current leaders navigating ongoing challenges, to youth poised to inherit the nation. The goal is clear: to learn from history, share lived experiences, and collaboratively develop key recommendations for sustainable development and governance.
Among the central topics slated for discussion are critical historical and policy milestones such as the 1995 public sector reforms, the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), and decentralization efforts. The forum will also consider PNG’s evolving role within global geopolitics and the implications of the Medium Term Development Plan 4 (MTDP4), among other pressing issues.
Key delegates will include representatives from the Australian and PNG Governments, officials from the host province, Western Highlands Province (WHP), as well as stakeholders from government agencies, churches, and civil society organisations. Importantly, the forum embraces inclusive participation, incorporating perspectives from youth, women, persons living with disabilities, children, and community leaders.
By fostering open, sub-national dialogue, this initiative addresses a critical gap in PNG’s political discourse—ensuring that development strategies are informed by voices at the grassroots as well as the centre. Reflecting on what has worked well—and what has not—over the past eight decades, the forum seeks to forge a shared vision for a more equitable, resilient, and prosperous future.
In a country characterised by rich diversity and complex governance challenges, this forum represents an important step towards building intergenerational consensus and locally grounded solutions for Papua New Guinea’s next 50 years.