BBC Media Action is set to launch a new report presenting key findings from its latest media study: Understanding Audience Needs, Values, and the Role of Media and Communication in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
The report captures the voices of people across the country and explores how they access, trust, and engage with different forms of media.
The research reveals a complex and multi-layered information environment in PNG. Despite growing access to mobile phones, half of those surveyed said they still rely on second-hand sources for information at least once a week.
The study also highlights a clear demand for more diverse and inclusive content: over one-third of respondents feel there is inadequate coverage of both local and international news, while nearly 40% want more content focused on issues across the wider Pacific region.
Additionally, 55% of participants believe there is insufficient media coverage of Papua New Guinea’s history and heritage.
This in-depth study sheds light on how people across the country engage with media, what they value, and the kind of content they seek. It is part of BBC Media Action’s broader three-year initiative to strengthen the skills and capacity of media professionals in PNG.
The project aims to foster high-quality, accurate, and inclusive public interest media that reaches and reflects all communities, especially those often underserved.
The research draws on a nationally representative mobile phone survey of 1,000 people, alongside a series of focus group discussions. Key themes explored include:
· Daily life and cultural values
· Media consumption across radio, TV, digital platforms, and mobile devices
· Trust in media sources and barriers to access
· Social media usage and engagement
· Audience preferences and content needs across different groups
· Public understanding and perceptions of misinformation and disinformation
The findings will help inform strategic efforts to strengthen the country’s media landscape, ensuring that all Papua New Guineans have access to the information they need to participate fully in civic life.
Speaking at the report’s launch event in Port Moresby, Rachael McGuin, Director of BBC Media Action’s Pacific Programme, said, “This research offers valuable insight into how people in Papua New Guinea are using and trusting media, and what they want more of. Understanding these needs is essential to building effective media and communication that truly serves the public.”
BBC Media Action looks forward to collaborating with local media, government agencies, and development partners in PNG to share these insights, explore their implications, and support approaches that better meet audience needs. A detailed research briefing will follow today’s discussions and will be made available more widely.
This research was made possible with support from the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and the British High Commission in Port Moresby.
As the BBC’s international charity, BBC Media Action uses media and communication to promote stronger democracies, inclusive societies, and a safer, more sustainable world. We combine journalism, creativity, research, and development expertise with deep local knowledge and strong partnerships — guided by the BBC’s core values of trust, integrity, public service, and respect.