The Yegiora Files

When preparing for our recent PG420 seminar series on cybersecurity and digital shifts in PNG, one of the most immediate challenges we encountered was the limited scholarly literature on this subject within the PNG context. While the global discourse on cybersecurity is rapidly expanding, academic work specifically focused on PNG remains scarce. As a result, we had to draw on international sources to ground our discussion and stimulate analytical thinking among our students. To initiate the conversation, Seminar 5 focused on China’s evolving cyber capabilities and how these influence broader international security dynamics. Using the edited volume China and Cybersecurity: Espionage, Strategy, and Politics in the Digital Domain by Lindsay, Cheung, and Reveron, students explored critical questions about cyber espionage, innovation, and global governance. One of the central questions, drawn from Nigel Inkster’s chapter, asked: How does the evolution of Chinese intelligence tradecraft in...

In the latest session of PG420 International and Regional Security seminar, students delved into the intricate world of cybersecurity, focusing on the evolving cyber strategies of China and the United States. The seminar opened with a moment of silence in honor of the late Dr. Alphonse Aime, followed by an introduction to the speakers and the ground rules for discussion. A major theme of the seminar was the response of the U.S. to China’s expanding cyber capabilities. One presenter detailed various U.S. strategies, including the use of sanctions, international collaboration, and efforts to establish a cyber code of conduct. The discussion highlighted that despite tensions, both China and the U.S. have mutual interests in cybersecurity, and fostering dialogue could lead to a more stable global cyber environment. Engaging third parties to mediate disputes was also suggested as a potential avenue for de-escalation. The seminar also examined how Chinese intelligence agencies have adapted...

The temporary shutdown of Facebook today in PNG has triggered widespread speculation and criticism. Many citizens are interpreting this decision as a political maneuver to suppress freedom of speech. However, such interpretations overlook the constitutional foundations of this action and risk creating unnecessary confusion. It is important to approach this matter by understanding the difference between qualified rights and absolute rights in the PNG Constitution, and how national security considerations can justify certain temporary restrictions. Screenshot of Police Minister's Statement on successful testing of ICT Control systems. In PNG, rights are not absolute across the board. The Constitution explicitly differentiates between absolute rights , which cannot be restricted under any circumstances, and qualified rights , which may be limited under specific conditions such as national security, public order, or public health. A clear example of an absolute right is the right to...

In an era of intensifying geopolitical competition and rising transnational threats, PNG must rethink its national security priorities with greater urgency and innovation. One area that demands immediate attention is maritime security. As an island state with vast and resource-rich maritime zones, PNG cannot afford to remain blind to illicit activities that occur daily across its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). One transformative step forward would be to acquire or gain access to satellite technology that can support persistent surveillance and enhance maritime domain awareness. Screenshot of the article by Marian Faa and Theckla Gunga. PNG currently relies heavily on external partners to monitor its maritime boundaries, particularly in the context of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, human trafficking, and transnational crime. While these partnerships remain important, they are not substitutes for sovereign capacity. Satellite capabilities—particularly those enabling ...

PNG’s higher education sector faces numerous challenges, with one of the most significant being the lack of academic mentorship and research culture within universities. Instead of offering scholarships to Solomon Islands students to study in PNG, the government should focus on building an academic mentorship framework that fosters research excellence and strengthens local expertise. Without proper guidance and mentorship, young academics in PNG struggle to develop their careers, limiting the country's intellectual and research capabilities. When I began teaching international relations in 2012, there was no senior lecturer or professor in the field to guide me in my journey toward becoming an academic or research expert. I had to build myself up through perseverance, self-learning, and dedication to training future graduates. Over the years, I have worked hard to establish myself in the field and have mentored students who have gone on to contribute significantly to the gove...

PNG’s higher education sector faces significant challenges that require urgent attention. One of the most pressing issues is the lack of PhD-qualified academics across various disciplines, including political science, international relations, education, journalism, anthropology, business management, public health, physiotherapy, education, law, environmental health, rural health, civil engineering, computer science, mathematics, geology, surveying, land administration, mining engineering, architecture, social work, religious studies, nursing, literature, and history. Despite numerous academic audits conducted by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST), which have highlighted the need for more research and staff development, little has been done to address this crisis. The government must prioritize funding to support academic growth and research output before extending scholarships to foreign students. The recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) b...

As PNG commemorates its 50th anniversary of nationhood, preparations are underway to highlight the country's significant historical journey and its contemporary strategic importance on the global stage. The celebrations, planned for September, will not only honor past achievements but also present PNG as the pivotal nation in Pacific geopolitics, underscoring its crucial role in ongoing global power competitions. Details of the preparations, including a high-profile royal visit, were recently shared by the Foreign Minister on his official Facebook page: Justin Tkatchenko - Moresby South MP . Screenshot of the Minister's Facebook page. This landmark anniversary has attracted international attention, notably with preparations for a high-profile visit by a Member of the British Royal Family. Coordination efforts for this royal visit are being carefully managed by Foreign Affairs Secretary Elias Wohengu, Chief of Protocol Lucas Manduru, and Chief Coordinator of the Royal Visit Jude...

PNG, the largest nation in the Pacific Islands region, has increasingly emerged as the strategic crown jewel in contemporary geopolitical competitions. In the intricate chessboard of Pacific geopolitics, PNG's abundant natural resources, geographical positioning, and political potential make it indispensable. Sir Halford Mackinder's Heartland Theory , which argues that control over pivotal geographic regions can determine global supremacy, provides a lens to understand why PNG has become such a contested space. Mackinder argued that domination of the "Heartland"—central Eurasia—would grant global power. Adapting this logic to the Pacific context, PNG serves as a maritime 'Heartland' whose control significantly influences strategic stability. Located just north of Australia and east of the Indonesian archipelago, PNG sits at a crucial intersection of maritime trade routes linking Asia, Oceania, and North America. Whoever wields influence over PNG gains substant...

Introduction The Post-Courier editorial titled "Is PNG’s Security Compromised?" critically examines national security issues facing Papua New Guinea (PNG). The piece explores concerns around unauthorized surveillance, exploitation of natural resources, cybersecurity threats, and potential weaknesses within intelligence and law enforcement structures. This review assesses the strength of the editorial’s arguments, its analytical depth, and the evidence presented, while providing recommendations to improve the clarity and impact of its message. Screenshot of the editorial on the Post Courier website. Summary The editorial raises important questions regarding the effectiveness of PNG's national security infrastructure by highlighting various incidents and concerns. It points to unauthorized foreign drone activities, suggesting potential espionage risks. Additionally, it addresses issues related to the unauthorized extraction of resources, including illegal mining, logging, ...

PNG is at a critical juncture in its foreign policy development, where strategic engagement with regional and global actors is becoming increasingly significant. As the country pursues its Vision 2050 strategic plan , it is essential to develop a home-grown Foreign Policy or International Relations program that aligns with PNG’s national aspirations, economic growth, and regional leadership ambitions. Currently, most students and professionals seeking expertise in this field must rely on foreign institutions, limiting the development of context-specific knowledge that is crucial for advancing PNG’s diplomatic and geopolitical objectives. Screenshot of the introduction segment of the survey. A locally developed postgraduate program in Foreign Policy Analysis will ensure that PNG’s diplomatic practitioners, policymakers, and international affairs experts are trained within a framework that reflects national priorities . While existing international relations programs provide general k...

In our PG420 International and Regional Security unit, students undertake a policy review assessment designed to enhance their critical thinking and analytical skills. For Assessment Task 1, students are required to individually select from specific national policies and provide a detailed critical evaluation. The policies provided span vital security areas, including cybersecurity, ocean management, climate development, population management, food security, and national defense. Screenshot of the instructions for the assessment task in the learning guide on Moodle. The task is structured into two main reviews spread across weeks 6 and 11. The first set of policy options includes the National Cyber Security Policy, National Oceans Policy, and the National Climate Compatible Development Management Policy. The second set encompasses the National Population Policy, National Food Security Policy, and the Defence White Paper. Each student selects one policy per review to critically analyze....

Introduction The EMTV news article titled "Trade Volume Between China and PNG Exceeds K17.8 Billion in 2024" highlights a significant economic milestone in the growing relationship between PNG and China. Published by EMTV Online, the article emphasizes strengthening trade and economic ties, exploring future economic prospects such as a potential Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This review adopts a critical stance, examining whether intensified economic engagement and symposiums with China could exacerbate geopolitical competition with Australia for regional influence in the Pacific and assesses the depth and quality of the media reporting itself. Screenshot of the EMTV report on their website.   Summary The article notes that the trade volume between China and PNG exceeded K17.8 billion in 2024, as stated by the Chinese Ambassador to PNG, H.E. Yang Xiaoguang, during a symposium. The report emphasizes China's position as PNG's largest trading partner and mentions the am...

China’s recent naval circumnavigation of Australia was more than just a military flex—it was a strategic message to the entire region , including PNG . The operation, which saw Chinese warships conducting live-fire drills in the Tasman Sea and intelligence-gathering missions along Australia’s coastline , exposed the limits of Australia’s defense capability . For PNG, this raises a fundamental question: If Australia cannot even protect its own waters , why should PNG place its security in Canberra’s hands?     Perhaps the most humiliating aspect of this incident was that China reportedly informed PNG about its naval operations but failed to notify Australia . This was no accident. By keeping PNG in the loop while ignoring Australia, China signaled that it sees Port Moresby as an important strategic player in the Pacific —one worth engaging diplomatically—while simultaneously undermining Australia’s regional authority . The move was calculated, sending a subtle but clear mes...

Introduction The article , published by RNZ Pacific , discusses the recent controversy surrounding a travel restriction imposed by West Sepik Governor Tony Wouwou. The governor denied entry to a group of men from the Highlands region who had arrived in Vanimo, reportedly seeking employment. His decision has ignited a nationwide debate, raising concerns about constitutional rights, regionalism, and security. This review provides an overview of the article, critically examines its arguments, and offers a concluding assessment of its broader implications. Screenshot of the article written by Scott Waide. Summary of the Article The article highlights Governor Wouwou's decision to prevent approximately 70 men from disembarking in Vanimo, citing concerns over law and order, the lack of verifiable employment contracts, and the need to prioritize local workers. The men were reportedly traveling to work for Bewani Palm Oil Limited, but the governor claimed their documentation was unclear...

Introduction PNG is at a crucial juncture in its foreign and defense policy, navigating a complex geopolitical environment shaped by strategic competition between major powers. While PNG has traditionally maintained a non-aligned stance, recent defense cooperation agreements highlight a pragmatic approach to enhancing national security without compromising sovereignty. The argument put forth in the article "Papua New Guinea: Shhhhh … don't use the word 'Alliance'" emphasizes that PNG can and should engage in security partnerships that benefit its people while carefully avoiding the entanglements of formal alliances. This position is well-founded, as it reflects the need for small states to balance external influences while prioritizing national interests. However, while PNG seeks to assert its agency in defense arrangements, it must remain vigilant to ensure that external partners, particularly Australia, do not overstep in using PNG as a tool for broader region...

PNG has recently sought U.S. assistance in maritime security, particularly in combating IUU fishing within its EEZ . This cooperation is facilitated through the 2023 Shiprider Agreement , under which PNG law enforcement officers can board U.S. Coast Guard vessels to enforce national laws in PNG waters . The deployment of USCGC MIDGETT in PNG’s waters underscores the importance of international partnerships in addressing PNG’s pressing maritime security concerns. However, while such collaborations are valuable, they highlight a critical gap in PNG’s security architecture—the absence of a National Maritime Security Strategy (NMSS). A NMSS is vital for a country like PNG, whose maritime domain is significantly larger than its landmass . Without a clear strategic framework, PNG risks a reactive approach to maritime security , relying heavily on ad hoc partnerships rather than a well-coordinated national effort. The NMSS should provide a roadmap for addressing key threats such as IUU ...