Sorcery Accusation-Related Violence – SARV is an issue with devastating consequences, especially for women and children in Papua New Guinea (PNG). In this year’s forum hosted by Business Coalition for Women at the Airways Hotel in Port Moresby city on 21st November, the focused was on the alarming rise of Sorcery Accusation-Related Violence (SARV) cases in PNG. The forum brought together leading experts, advocates, and community members to discuss the root causes of SARV, share survivor stories, and develop actionable solutions. On the panel was Concordia Lutheran Professional Mission Services (CLPMS) Project Manager Mr. Anthony Lutz, Chair and President for Advising PNG Women Leaders Network (APNGWL) Ruth Kissam, The Voice of Change Program Support Officer & Human Rights Defender Leentje Be’soer, Melanesian Institute Executive Director Br. Martin, and the Family Support Director Jessie Soi. The forum participants discussed 11 key actions to tackle SARV (Sorcery Accusation-Related Violence). These actions focus on raising awareness, strengthening legal protections, providing medical and emotional support to survivors, and involving the community to prevent future violence. Let us look at these actions in more detail, explained simply. The first action is to INCREASE AWARENESS AND ADVOCACY. This means recognizing that SARV is a serious health problem, and teaching people in communities and workplaces about it. Many people have false beliefs about sorcery, so it is important to teach them the truth. When people understand what is really happening, they can change their attitudes and treat others with respect. The second call to action is STRENGTHEN LEGAL PROTECTIONS. This means making sure the laws are strong enough to protect people from SARV. There should be clear rules to punish those who hurt others because of these false beliefs. It is also important that survivors can easily find help to get justice and support. The third action is HEALTH EDUCATION. Doctors and other health workers need to teach communities about the real reasons why people get sick or die. Sometimes, people wrongly believe someone is using sorcery to cause harm. By teaching people about health and science, we can stop these myths from spreading. The fourth call to action SUPPORT FREE MEDICAL CARE FOR SURVIVORS. People who survive SARV often have many injuries and emotional pain, and they should not have to pay for treatment. Providing free medical care helps them recover and feel safe. PROMOTING SURVIVOR SAFETY is also crucial. Local authorities should create safe places for survivors to stay, away from harm. There should also be ways for people to report SARV cases secretly, so those who need help can ask for it without fear. It is also important to train the people who respond to these reports to be kind and understanding, making survivors feel comfortable and supported. The sixth action is to RECRUIT AND TRAIN COUNSELORS. Survivors of SARV often need someone to talk to and help them heal emotionally. Counselors trained to deal with these specific needs can give survivors the support they need to feel better and rebuild their lives. The seventh action is to ENGAGE MEN AS ALLIES. It is important to involve men in stopping SARV. Men can help by learning about how SARV harms women and standing up for respect and kindness. When men help change their communities’ views, they can stop violence and promote peace. SCREENING MEDICAL APPLICANTS is also important. This means checking that people who want to work as doctors or nurses are not influenced by harmful beliefs like those related to SARV. Healthcare workers should treat everyone fairly and not let personal beliefs affect their care. The ninth action is to EMPOWER WOMEN AS COMMUNITY EDUCATORS AND LEADERS. Women should be trained to teach others about SARV and how to stop it. When women take leadership roles, they can influence their communities in a positive way, spreading the message of respect and helping others understand the problem. The tenth action is to ENCOURAGE DATA COLLECTION. Collecting information about SARV helps us understand how big the problem is and where it happens the most. When we know the facts, we can make better decisions on how to stop it and help survivors. Lastly, PARTNER WITH RESEARCH ORGANIZATIONS. Working with researchers helps us learn more about SARV and how to prevent it. These experts can study the problem and produce solutions based on factual evidence. By using facts and research, we can make sure the actions we take will be effective in stopping SARV. Forum participants emphasized the urgent need for collective action to address this pervasive issue. By implementing these recommendations, PNG can work towards creating a safer and more just society for all Papua New Guineans.