UN Calls for Justice and Human Rights Protection Amid Gender Based Violence and Forced Eviction Reports in Port Moresby

Port Moresby, 18 February: The United Nations in Papua New Guinea is deeply concerned by recent reports of forced evictions and burning of houses in the Baruni informal settlement in Port Moresby allegedly by the police, reportedly in response to the horrific abduction, rape and killing of a woman near the settlement.

We strongly condemn all acts of sexual and gender-based violence and call for justice for the victim. At the same time, collective punishment, forced evictions, and destruction of homes violate fundamental human rights and disproportionately harm the vulnerable, including women, children, and the elderly.

We urge authorities to ensure that law enforcement actions are conducted in accordance with human rights principles, due process, and the rule of law. Collective punishments and reprisals should never be considered part of legitimate law enforcement operations. We call for an immediate investigation into these incidents and reaffirm our commitment to working with the Government of Papua New Guinea to promote justice, human rights, and the protection of all individuals.

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Richard Howard

RCO Resident Coordinator

rcs-uninpng-office@un.org