PNG Moves to Strengthen Workplace Inclusion with DHERST GESI Policy

PNG Moves to Strengthen Workplace Inclusion with DHERST GESI Policy

A new policy targeting equality and inclusion has been introduced in Papua New Guinea, with DHERST unveiling its Gender Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) framework.
The initiative signals a renewed effort to address workplace disparities while ensuring equal opportunities across all levels of the department.
The policy draws from findings gathered during a March 2025 sensitisation programme facilitated through the Improved TVET for Employment Project, which assessed gaps in inclusivity within the department.

Secretary for DHERST, Lonnie Baki, said gender equity and inclusion are no longer optional but central to national development goals.
“From a global perspective, gender equity and social inclusion are increasingly recognized as essential to sustainable development, strong institutions and social cohesion. Regionally in the Pacific, inclusive governance and equal participation of women, youth and persons with disabilities are seen as key to resilience and progress whilst nationally, GESI is critical to ensuring that every citizen can contribute meaningfully to national development, and these commitments aligning to our national development frameworks,” Mr Baki said.
He said the framework ensures a more focused response to challenges that have persisted despite existing policies.
“Despite existing policy frameworks, GESI policy provides a deliberate and structured approach to address barriers that are often overlooked in mainstream policies. It strengthens fairness participation and ensures our systems work for everyone.
“Importantly (GESI) is not a policy for women alone, it is for everyone, men, and women, persons with disabilities, youth, marginalized individuals or groups benefits the entire organization whilst strengthening institutional performance.”
GESI committee chair and Deputy Secretary Ruth Philip said the document provides direction for embedding inclusive practices across governance and operations.

“The DHERST GESI Policy sets out to guide leadership, management and governance by focusing on eliminating negative cultural norms and practices that perpetuate inequality, strengthen GESI reporting and alignment with National Development Plans and DHERST strategies, embed GESI within departmental systems, policies and operational processes, develop workforce capacity to effectively implement GESI initiatives whilst Preventing and responding to discrimination, harassment and violence in the workplace,” Mrs Philip said.
She added that implementation of the policy would lead to a more balanced and respectful workforce.
“This would help build a more Inclusive and equitable DHERST by integrating GESI principles and values into department’s leadership and management practice as well as into departmental policies and procedures,” Mrs Philip said.

The department is expected to roll out an action plan and monitoring system to track progress, while continuing to align its efforts with the National Public Service GESI Policy 2013.
Mr Baki acknowledged support from the Asian Development Bank and Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in delivering the policy.

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