The Yegiora Files

In the wake of Hon. Dr. Lino Tom's recent remarks about the looming disintegration of Papua New Guinea (PNG) as a united nation, it is crucial to delve deeper into the structural issues that underlie the challenges he highlights. Dr. Tom’s call to reflect on PNG’s future, particularly as we approach our 50th anniversary of independence, draws attention to the growing cries for dismemberment and the widespread disillusionment with how the nation’s wealth is distributed. While Dr. Tom’s analysis is heartfelt, it offers a limited view of the complex socio-economic forces that drive the inequality he so rightly condemns. In his commentary, Dr. Tom focuses on the unequal distribution of resources and wealth, especially the concentration of power and wealth in the hands of a few elites. He criticizes the failure of the nation to live up to the National Goals and Directive Principles (NGDP), which advocate for inclusive development, equality, and participation. These principles were enshr...

The publication of Papua New Guinea’s Foreign Policy White Paper marks a milestone in defining the nation’s place in a complex and rapidly changing global environment. However, the process behind this document, which should have been a transparent and inclusive national effort, leaves much to be desired. At the heart of this issue is the ineffectiveness of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, which has failed to provide the level of oversight and accountability necessary for such an important initiative. The Role of the Committee: Oversight or Oversight? The Permanent Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence exists to scrutinize policies, processes, and expenditures within the domain of PNG’s foreign policy and national defense. It should serve as a critical body that holds the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) accountable for how public funds are used and ensures that such processes adhere to principles of transparency, inclusivity, and quality. Unfortunately,...

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in Papua New Guinea (PNG) has taken a bold step into the digital age with the launch of its official website: https ://dfa.gov.pg . This new platform is more than a tool for diplomacy—it’s a rich resource for academics, students, and educators seeking to enhance their understanding of PNG’s foreign policy and international relations. As an educator and researcher, I see immense potential for the DFA website to revolutionize teaching and learning by fostering critical thinking, practical application, and global awareness. The website provides comprehensive access to PNG’s foreign policy documents, diplomatic mission information, and updates on global engagements. This wealth of information allows educators to ground their lessons in real-world contexts, turning abstract concepts into tangible examples. For instance, courses on foreign policy analysis or international relations can incorporate these materials to examine how PNG negotiates trade dea...

The announcement that Papua New Guinea’s foreign policy white paper will be tabled in April 2025 is a milestone for the nation. However, this milestone also exposes a glaring oversight in the policy formulation process—the lack of consultation with key academic institutions that contribute significantly to the human resources of the Department of Foreign Affairs. Among these institutions, Divine Word University (DWU) stands out, particularly its Department of PNG and International Studies. Over the past decade, DWU has produced about thirteen graduates who are currently working for the Department of Foreign Affairs. This significant number underscores DWU’s pivotal role in shaping the country’s diplomatic and foreign policy capabilities. Students are taught theory and practical knowledge to help them develop a robust understanding of international relations, aligning with efforts to implement the Vision 2050 strategic plan. The program has also innovated its teaching and learning appr...