Prime Minister James Marape has welcomed a new partnership with the PNG Trade Union Congress (PNGTUC) in a collaborative effort to combat workplace harassment and gender-based violence (GBV). The initiative aims to introduce stronger policies, advocacy programmes, and legal frameworks to protect women and girls in the workforce and beyond. At a high-level meeting, PNGTUC General Secretary, Clemence Kanau highlighted the critical role of trade unions in addressing GBV and workplace harassment, stating that this issue has never been formally tackled in employment contracts before. “GBV is a serious problem. As unions, we have fought for workers’ rights for many years, but this is one issue that has never been properly addressed in our workplaces.” “We want to collaborate with the Employers’ Federation and other stakeholders to develop a policy that will make workplace harassment a dismissible offence. This is something new, and we are committed to making it work.” Kanau further outlined PNGTUC’s nationwide approach, which includes advocacy in schools, workplaces, and rural communities to educate young boys and girls about the importance of respect, safeguarding women, and rejecting violence. “We must train boys and girls in classrooms, so they understand why violence is wrong and learn to protect their sisters and mothers.” “This will not only empower women but also create a generation of men who stand against violence.” Meanwhile, Prime Minister Marape commended PNGTUC’s initiative and agreed that legal amendments may be necessary to incorporate anti-harassment and anti-violence clauses into employment contracts. “This is a powerful and necessary step, and we already have workplace policies that address harassment, but they are often confined to specific organizations. It’s time to expand these protections across all sectors and make them a national standard.” The Prime Minister reiterated that combating GBV is not just about workplace policies; it starts in the home. He noted that abusive behaviour, whether by men or women, must be addressed at its root cause to create a society where violence is unacceptable in every form. “Leadership starts in the home. If a person is found to be abusive; whether it’s a man towards a woman or vice versa, there must be consequences. We must change our national mindset.” On the other hand, Kanau also emphasized the importance of engaging international organizations, diplomatic missions, and development partners in this effort. PNGTUC plans to work closely with the United Nations, employers’ groups, and civil society organizations to ensure this initiative is well-resourced and effectively implemented. “Unions have been fighting for workers’ rights for years, but often governments do not listen to us,” Kanau said. “However, because of our democratic foundation, unions remain a critical voice in society. This collaboration is our first major step towards institutionalizing protections against workplace harassment and GBV.” PNGTUC’s strategy includes: - Developing curriculum-based advocacy programmes in schools to educate young people about gender equality and violence prevention. - Strengthening link with rural communities to ensure that anti-violence messages reach all Papua New Guineans, not just those in urban centres. - Incorporating GBV protections into labour laws and workplace policies to ensure victims are protected and offenders are held accountable. Additionally, as part of PNG’s 50th anniversary of independence commemorations, PM Marape emphasized that addressing GBV and workplace harassment must be a key part of the country’s long-term development goals. “This issue is not just about workplace policies; it is about creating a safer, more respectful society. As we reflect on our nation’s journey over the past fifty years, let us make a commitment to ensuring that our next fifty years are defined by equality, justice and respect for all.” The government, in collaboration with PNGTUC, will work towards legislative changes, workplace reforms and national awareness campaigns to ensure that violence and harassment in any form are no longer tolerated in Papua New Guinea.