From global war zones to the remotest parts of PNG, volunteers are working to protect local communities, helping them to rebuild and recover from the destructive impact of natural disasters, conflict and violence.
Specific challenges for PNG include tribal fighting in which housing, school and health facilities are frequently destroyed, and families are forced to flee their homes. This country is also prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and, like other developing countries, has a health system struggling to cope with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Red Cross staff and volunteers have been actively engaged in providing aid and assistance to mitigate the worst of these threats, which frequently afflict the most vulnerable in society.
PNG Red Cross Society (PNGRCS) Interim General Secretary Newton Kiafuli said "PNGRC strives to save the lives of people in PNG through support for healthcare, and the prevention of disease. It offers help and support for people to rebuild their communities, always focusing on humanitarian priorities and looking out for the most vulnerable in society such as people who have to flee from violence, women, children and the elderly."
The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) National Society Development Manager, Dino Argianto said "The coming together of individual societies in the International Federation means resources can be mobilized to where there is greatest need. Since early 2020 the IFRC has been delighted to be able to fund the PNG Red Cross Society work, raising awareness and increasing prevention against COVID 19."
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Head of Mission Dominik Urban added that along with other activities carried out the ICRC has been supporting PNG's uniformed forces in preparation for the looming general elections, "The ICRC has expertise in providing training for disciplinary forces to operate according to international best practice, aiming at minimizing violence and protecting human rights."
