Armed conflict, warfare, rape and kidnapping in Hela Province, Papua New Guinea: how to support local-led initiatives for peacebuilding

Violent and armed conflict in Hela Province has significantly worsened over the past few years, despite the continued efforts of various development organisations in trying to make a difference to the situation.

Yet grassroots, locally-led peacebuilding efforts do exist in Hela, and the speakers argue that the most effective way for outside organisations to engage with these problems is to identify and support the considerable indigenous expertise that already exists on the ground.

In April 2022 the US identified PNG as a partner country under the US Global Fragility Strategy. This presents an opportunity for a new type of engagement in PNG, and Hela Province in particular.

About the speakers

James Komengi is from Tari, the capital of Hela Province. James has spent many years devoted to peacebuilding initiatives in his home province and has worked with international partners including DFAT and UNDP on programs related to violent conflict.

Michael Main completed his PhD in anthropology at ANU in 2020, for which he conducted long-term research in Tari and Komo with a focus on understanding armed conflict in Hela as well as cultural expressions and impacts of trauma.

This seminar presentation will be online via Zoom only.

Image credit: Armed clan near Komo, Hela Province, Papua New Guinea, photographed and supplied by Michael Main.