Strengthening PNG Diplomacy: Why Career Foreign Service Officers Should Lead as Heads of Missions

PNG’s diplomatic engagements are pivotal in ensuring the country remains a respected and influential player in the complex international arena. However, a recurring issue threatens the professionalism and effectiveness of our foreign service—the appointment of politically connected individuals as Heads of Missions (HoMs), often at the expense of experienced career Foreign Service Officers (FSOs).

While some political appointees have served with distinction, the time has come to institutionalize a system that prioritizes merit, expertise, and continuity. This can be achieved by mandating through legislation that only FSOs are eligible to serve as Heads of Missions. Unfortunately, PNG is yet to have a Foreign Service Act that could formalize such a requirement.

The role of a HoM is not just ceremonial—it is the cornerstone of PNG's foreign policy implementation. It requires years of experience, specialized training, and deep institutional knowledge. Career FSOs like Ambassador Helen Aitsi, Ambassador Joseph Varo, and Ambassador Fred Sarufa exemplify the value of appointing individuals who have dedicated their lives to the foreign service. Ambassador Helen Aitsi (Kundu Seoul) has demonstrated exceptional professionalism and capability, drawing on her years of experience within the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to strengthen PNG's diplomatic ties with South Korea. Ambassador Joseph Varo, stationed in Brussels, represents PNG at the European Union, showcasing the importance of institutional knowledge in navigating complex multilateral relations. Ambassador Fred Sarufa, stationed at the United Nations Mission in New York, brings years of expertise in multilateral diplomacy, further underlining the critical role of career diplomats in advancing the country’s interests on the global stage.

A screenshot of the news article about the appointment of Ambassador Helen Aitsi from the Post-Courier.

Additionally, PNG has a history of exceptional FSOs who have left a legacy of professionalism and dedication. The late Ambassador Michael Maue and the recently retired Ambassador Max Rai exemplify the highest standards of foreign service. Their distinguished careers are a testament to the expertise, commitment, and institutional memory that career diplomats contribute to PNG's foreign service. Their success reinforces the argument for prioritizing FSOs in HoM roles.

Political appointees often lack the diplomatic training and years of experience that FSOs possess. While some have performed admirably, many political appointees treat their roles as symbolic or temporary postings rather than as critical positions that require strategic focus and long-term relationship-building. Furthermore, political appointments can lead to instability and inefficiency in PNG's foreign service. Diplomacy thrives on continuity, as building and maintaining strong relationships with host nations, international organizations, and key stakeholders often takes years. Frequent turnover of politically appointed HoMs disrupts this process and undermines the effectiveness of PNG's foreign policy.

It is essential for PNG to draft and enact a Foreign Service Act that includes a clause prohibiting political appointments to HoM roles. Such a reform would institutionalize the principle that diplomacy is a profession requiring specialized skills and years of experience. Key benefits of this reform would include strengthened professionalism by limiting HoM appointments to FSOs, ensuring that PNG’s diplomatic efforts are led by seasoned professionals. It would increase meritocracy, promoting FSOs from within the DFA and motivating officers in the ranks to dedicate themselves to their profession, knowing that their hard work can lead to top positions. It would also create institutional stability, as a career diplomat at the helm guarantees continuity in policy implementation, even when governments change.

Career FSOs are the backbone of PNG’s diplomatic service. Their knowledge, skills, and dedication ensure that PNG's voice is heard on the global stage. By legislating that only FSOs can serve as HOMs, the government would demonstrate respect for the profession and recognize the critical role that these individuals play in advancing the nation’s interests.

A former senior FSO or DFA Secretary would never serve as Secretary of Finance, Chief Justice, or Police Commissioner. The government will always appoint from the rank and file in these fields because these positions require specialized expertise and professionalism. The same standard must apply to the DFA. FSOs currently serving in the department must take the lead in advocating for legislative reform to protect their career pathways and ensure the integrity of the foreign service.

FSOs must push for the establishment of a Foreign Service Act that defines the roles, responsibilities, and career pathways within the DFA. This Act should safeguard the foreign service from political interference, ensure appointments are merit-based, and provide a clear framework for career progression. PNG’s foreign policy and diplomatic engagements are too important to be treated as a political reward. The time to act is now—legislation is essential to preserve the professionalism, credibility, and effectiveness of our nation’s foreign service. Let career FSOs lead the way, for the benefit of PNG and its place on the global stage.