Understanding the Legal Framework and the Challenges of Implementation

In Papua New Guinea, child protection is guided by a strong legal framework designed to safeguard the rights and well-being of children. Central to this framework is the Lukautim Pikinini Act 2015, which is aligned with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, to which PNG has been a signatory since 1993. The Act defines a child as any person under the age of 18 and provides mechanisms for investigating abuse, removing children from unsafe environments, and referring cases to the Family Court. It also addresses child labour and repeals the former Child Welfare Act.

Complementing this legislation is the Criminal Code (Sexual Offences and Crimes Against Children) Act 2002, which criminalises sexual abuse, exploitation, and breaches of trust involving children. The Act strengthens protections by removing requirements that previously made it difficult for children’s cases to proceed through the justice system.

Other key laws further reinforce child protection in PNG. The Adoption of Children Act places the welfare and best interests of the child at the centre of adoption decisions. The Juvenile Justice Act 2014 establishes a separate justice system for minors, focusing on rehabilitation, diversion, and restorative justice rather than punishment. In addition, the Family Protection Act 2013 criminalises domestic violence and provides for Interim Protection Orders, which can extend protection to children exposed to family violence.

Despite this comprehensive legal framework, Papua New Guinea continues to face significant challenges in effectively protecting children. A major barrier is limited public awareness, with many families and communities unaware of children’s rights and the services available to support them. Resource constraints within government agencies, welfare offices, and frontline services often delay responses to reports of abuse. Cultural practices that view violence as a private family matter or prioritise customary dispute resolution can further discourage reporting and intervention.

Geographical challenges also play a role. Remote and hard-to-reach communities make monitoring cases and delivering consistent protection difficult. Weak enforcement, driven by understaffed police units, slow legal processes, and inconsistent application of the law, means that many perpetrators are not held accountable. These factors leave children vulnerable to ongoing abuse, exploitation, and neglect, with serious consequences for their safety, wellbeing, and long-term development.

Strengthening child protection in PNG requires a shared responsibility. Government institutions, communities, families, churches, and local leaders all have a role to play in upholding the rights of children. By working together, PNG can move closer to ensuring a safer, more secure, and brighter future for every child. What role should each of us play in making sure no child grows up without protection or hope?