26/06/2025
A PUBLIC MESSAGE regarding the process of developing the new DRAFT National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to GBV 2026 to 2035,
Recent statements posted on FB regarding the consultation process and development of the National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) are factually incorrect and constitute the spread of misinformation . This is not only regrettable for those who are misled, but it undermines the collective efforts of all stakeholders—especially civil society organizations (CSOs)—working to address GBV in Papua New Guinea.
To be clear: CSOs were actively and extensively consulted throughout the strategy’s development. As members of the Technical Working Group (TWG), CSOs have been directly involved from the outset. CSOs have attended every TWG presentation, participated in national research presentations, and contributed to expert workshops—where they gave substantial input official minutes and incorporated into the strategy. At each of these sessions, participants were provided with a dedicated email address to submit feedback - this email address has been listed here also on this FB page, and all Papua New Guineans were encouraged to circulate this address widely for further input.
The consultation process was both broad and deep:
• Over 5,000 Papua New Guineans participated in the national survey. This survey was sent to all CSOs to disseminate and a request to the CSOs was to offer input.
• All 21 provinces, plus the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, submitted detailed questionnaires.
• More than 1,000 frontline workers were interviewed.
• An open email address was made public for confidential submissions.
• The draft strategy was distributed to all provincial GBV focal points for review and comment.
• All feedback received was reviewed and, where appropriate, integrated into the final strategy.
If any other CSO leader or indeed any Papua New Guinean wishes to review the comprehensive research on the previous strategy, the new draft strategy, the Monitoring, Learning and Evaluation Framework, or the Implementation Plan, these documents are available from the TWG committee chairs. The literature review, research report, and all draft frameworks are available for feedback to everyone.
It is inaccurate and irresponsible to claim otherwise. CSOs have had every opportunity to contribute meaningfully. If you have not had a personal invitation or personal interview - you still have been given and will still be given ample opportunity to give input. The strategy is a living document, designed for ongoing revision and improvement. Constructive engagement is always welcome, but public dissemination of false claims—especially via social media—serves only to erode trust and impede progress.
Cyber-misinformation, including the deliberate spread of inaccuracies, is itself a form of harm addressed in the new strategy. Professional conduct and accountability are essential. If you have not reviewed the relevant documents, I encourage everyone to request them and provide substantive feedback through the appropriate channels. Let us focus on strengthening the sector and supporting survivors, not undermining the work of others.
