Pope Francis, on his extensive 11-day tour through Southeast Asia and Oceania, made a stop in Papua New Guinea, where he addressed some of the country’s most pressing issues. During his visit, he called for an end to decades-long tribal conflicts that have plagued the nation and urged for equitable development of its vast natural resources. He also highlighted the alarming prevalence of gender violence in the country, a topic he addressed directly during his interactions with local officials and dignitaries.
Upon his arrival in Port Moresby, the capital city, Francis was greeted by a lively performance from dancers adorned in colorful grass skirts. He then met with the governor general and other prominent figures from the region, engaging in discussions about the state of the nation and its challenges. His visit also included a heartwarming encounter with disabled children, who performed for him, eliciting smiles and laughter from the pope as he distributed candy to them.
In a speech delivered to government authorities and diplomats, Francis marveled at the diversity of Papua New Guinea’s population, with its 800 distinct languages. He acknowledged the unique challenges posed by such a diverse population, recognizing the potential for conflict while also emphasizing the need for harmony and cooperation.
Francis addressed the issue of tribal violence head-on, calling for an end to the bloodshed that has become a persistent feature of the country’s culture. He appealed for a sense of civic responsibility and cooperation, arguing that such unity is crucial for progress and development. He emphasized that ending violence would pave the way for crucial improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
The governor general of Papua New Guinea, Bob Dadae, echoed Francis’ concerns, particularly highlighting the need for greater protection of women and respect for their rights. He pointed to the widespread issue of gender violence, often linked to allegations of sorcery, which has become deeply ingrained in the country’s social fabric. According to UN Women, a staggering 60% of Papua New Guinean women have experienced physical or sexual violence at the hands of intimate partners, a figure significantly higher than the global average. In 2022, the country ranked 151 out of 166 nations on a UN gender inequality index.
Francis acknowledged the gravity of the issue, stating that women are the backbone of the country, playing a crucial role in life, development, and growth. He urged for their protection and empowerment, a stance particularly notable considering the Catholic Church’s historical limitations on women’s roles. While Francis has taken steps to address gender inequality within the church, notably appointing women to key Vatican positions and advocating for their greater involvement in decision-making, he has maintained the ban on women’s ordination.
Francis also raised the issue of sustainable development and the equitable distribution of Papua New Guinea’s vast natural resources, including gold, nickel, and natural gas. Disputes over wealth distribution and mining royalties have often fueled conflict. Drawing upon his own encyclicals on the environment, Francis advocated for a development model that prioritizes the well-being of local communities, not just multinational corporations. He emphasized the need for environmentally responsible practices to preserve resources for future generations, stating that Papua New Guinea’s resources belong to the entire community, not just select individuals or companies.
Finally, Francis called for a definitive solution to the ongoing issue of Bougainville, an island region that voted overwhelmingly in 2019 for independence from Papua New Guinea. The outcome of this referendum, however, remains unimplemented.
Despite the rigors of his travels and the eight-hour time difference between Papua New Guinea and Rome, the 87-year-old Francis appeared in good spirits, engaging with the local communities and dignitaries with enthusiasm. He interacted playfully with children, even trying his hand at playing a traditional kundu drum, and was warmly received by crowds who danced and sang in traditional attire. The visit also drew notable figures from surrounding South Pacific nations, including the prime ministers of Vanuatu and Tonga, and the president of Nauru, underscoring the significance of Francis’ presence in the region.
Francis is the second pope to visit Papua New Guinea, following in the footsteps of St. John Paul II who visited in 1984 and 1995. His visit to Papua New Guinea is a testament to his commitment to addressing global challenges, promoting peace and justice, and advocating for sustainable development in communities around the world.
