The Yegiora Files

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...