Strategies to reduce internal displacement in Papua New Guinea
Many Papua New Guineans are often forced out of their homes because of tribal conflicts, land disputes, natural disasters, and climate change, causing harm to families and strain on host communities.
The PNGNRI’s latest Spotlight Vol 19, Issue 10 “Strategies to Address Internal Displacement in Papua New Guinea”, authored by Research Officer Akam Tom, not only explores the causes and impacts of internal displacement, but also suggests some ways to reduce internal displacement in the country.
The main causes of displacement include tribal fights, land disputes, natural disasters, climate change effects, and drought. Whatever the cause, internal displacement is a growing humanitarian and development concern in Papua New Guinea. The impacts range from loss of homes to disruptions in education, healthcare, and livelihoods.
But there are strategies that can be used to address this concern. The key strategies to minimise the impacts of internal displacement include disaster preparedness education, timely mobile alerts, border monitoring, policy research, and awareness campaigns, mostly in schools.
More importantly, government agencies, civil society orgnisations, and corporate and business associations should work together to improve early warning systems and community readiness to help keep families safe in their homes whenever disaster strikes or tribal clashes erupts.
Authorised for release by:
Dr Osborne Sanida
PNGNRI Director
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