Law and Order Risks in Papua New Guinea: Perceptions and Strategies

Abstract

The breakdown of law and order reflects complex social and economic issues. Papua New Guinea is undergoing rapid transition, resulting in a breakdown of traditional social controls. Rural areas lack the services and opportunities available in urban areas, resulting in rural to urban migration. The cost of living in towns is very high and causes some people to turn to criminal activities in order to survive (GOPNG Office of National Planning and United Nations Development Programme, 1999:141). Even were reliable, accurate and timely statistics available … there are serious concerns as to the value of statistical information in determining the extent of crime in a community. Statistics must, therefore, be interpreted keeping in mind their limitations and the dangers of generalising from statistical data. Other means of measuring crime such as victimisation surveys and self-report studies may have particular relevance in PNG where it is often difficult or impossible to even report the occurrence of a crime (Banks 1997:43-44). Civil society organisations can increase the participation of the poor in the development and implementation of poverty reduction policies and programmes. In the current social unrest, we have witnessed the vital role that these organisations have played in providing some aspects of the social safety net to protect those who have been displaced. Solomon Islands in its Peace Agreement or Peace Plan must provide an enabling environment that allows institutions of civil society to be established and perform their functions freely (Liloqula, 2000:8). Show more