Since 1980, Papua New Guinea’s population has more than doubled, increasing pressure on land and resources while exacerbating rivalries between tribes.
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At least 26 people, including 16 children, were killed in attacks on three villages in Papua New Guinea on July 16 and 18, the UN reported on Wednesday, July 24, adding that the final death toll could exceed 50. PMore than 200 villagers fled when their homes were burned. “I am horrified by the shocking outbreak of deadly violence in Papua New Guinea, apparently stemming from a dispute over ownership and use rights to land and lakes.”said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk in a statement.
He said the attacks occurred in East Sepik province and called on authorities “to conduct prompt, impartial and transparent investigations” and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. He judges “It is also essential that victims and their families receive reparations, including adequate housing, effective protection against further attacks and psychosocial support.”.
Papua New Guinea’s population has more than doubled since 1980, increasing pressure on land and resources and exacerbating tribal rivalries. Fighting has intensified in recent years with the influx of automatic weapons and mercenaries. The archipelago’s government has tried a variety of strategies to stem the violence—repression, mediation, amnesty and other methods—with little success.
