State and society

Abstract

The formation of a state is a relatively recent phenomenon in Papua New Guinea. Traditional political systems were small and maintained order through a mixture of self-help, reciprocity, gossip, shaming and supernatural sanctions. Colonial rule took decades to establish itself and now, 20 years after independence, there is a crisis of governance that is manifested in widespread dissatisfaction with the performance and appropriateness of elected representatives and the public service. So long as the process continues to evolve, the outcomes will depend on the character of the society. Show more