Papua New Guinea's Independence Day: Events, security and what to expect

Numerous events are planned up to 16 September, particularly in Port Moresby and Lae. Approximately 2,000 extra police personnel will be deployed to monitor and support independence events. 

What’s happening in Port Moresby this week:

• The ‘Amazing Port Moresby Festival’ at Ela Beach between 12 and 16 September, which included a float parade from Murray Barracks to Ela Beach on 12 September.
• Designated national holidays on 15 to 17 September.
• Independence Day ceremonies and celebrations on 16 September. The primary celebrations are expected at Sir John Guise Stadium into the evening hours.

What to expect on the ground

Large crowds and localised disruption are highly likely at event locations, including the National Parliament, Sir Hubert Murray Stadium and Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby, among others. The police are almost certain to set up checkpoints, road closures and additional screening measures ahead of the events.

Despite an increased police presence, crime and unrest risks are HIGH and will be elevated in the vicinity of planned events. Opportunistic crime is a persistent risk, and the large crowds increase the risk of pickpocketing, bag snatching and general theft, including of vehicles. Violence could break out at short notice, particularly around large crowds and during the evening hours, when alcohol-related incidents become more common. While risks are elevated, foreign nationals are unlikely to be targeted discriminately as long as appropriate security precautions are in place. Social tensions during Independence Day elevate the risk of clashes between rival groups along tribal and ethnic lines.

How to stay safe during celebrations

• Identify nearby events and consider adjusting itineraries to bypass these areas.
• Self-driving is permissible in Port Moresby with extensive security precautions; update journey management plans and ensure multiple contingency routes are identified in case of an escalation.
• Anticipate a heightened police presence around events and flashpoint locations, especially in Port Moresby.
• Maintain a low profile and exercise a heightened level of situational awareness.
• If clashes and/or an uptick in criminal incidents occur in the vicinity of events, vacate affected areas immediately and temporarily minimise non-essential movement.

Outlook in Papua New Guinea

The country continues to face a myriad of challenges that will require tailored security and medical planning. Local risk environments vary greatly and are often driven by complex security and operational risks, including crime, unrest and intra-state conflict. Bougainville’s recent general election will bring local independence questions back to the forefront of national discussions, tribal conflict persists in large areas of the Highlands, and natural disasters continue to pose severe latent risks to organisations in-country. All this is occurring alongside Papua New Guinea’s increasing geopolitical importance and foreign investment incentives, meaning the country’s long-term outlook is filled with opportunity and uncertainty. 

Contact us to build a plan that fits your people, your operations and your risk profile. Email enquiries@healix.com.