Papua New Guinea Women in Mining History, Progress and Challenges

Social context of mining in PNG Complex tribal and clan systems Six major mines (five operating and one in closure) with significant impacts Women traditionally excluded from decision making about mining issues

Why and how women began to engage Several factors compelled women to speak out about mining issues Adverse social impacts Development concerns Mine closure External support helped amplify their voices, unify efforts and priortize actions WIM Conferences in 2003 and 2005 catalyzed dialogue among diverse groups

Progress to date Surveying the issues at the 2003 WIM Conference Perceived risks

Progress to date Surveying the issues at the 2003 WIM Conference survey Perceived benefits

Progress to date Prioritization of issues in 2003 Women’s economic empowerment Women’s social empowerment Health and education Safety and security Summary vision statement To create a future of prosperity and peace resulting from improved quality of life [which] is reflected in womens’ ablity to make choices on issues affecting their lives and to have the means to put these choices into actions.

Progress to date Eight main goals created in 2005 Improving Education and Literacy; Improving Health Care Services; Reducing Communicable Diseases including HIV/AIDs; Increasing Economic, Political, Cultural and Social Participation Strengthening and Sustaining Women’s Associations; Ensuring Sustainable Livelihoods; Mitigating Environmental Harm; and Promoting Safe, Secure and Peaceful Communities. Framework for Action 2005 and onward Government agencies developed local Action Plans with Womens Associations at six sites Implementation Frameworks in development WIM Steering Committee to monitor progress

On-going challenges Achieving consensus across diverse stakeholders on final WIM Action Plan Ensuring harmonization of strategic plans with on-the-ground actions Sytematically measuring impacts and outcomes Building capacity for local leadership