Papua New Guinea Customary Practices and Women's Rights
Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a nation rich in tradition, where customary practices deeply influence the social fabric of daily life. While these traditions provide a sense of identity, many are rooted in patriarchal attitudes—social systems where men hold primary power—that create significant challenges for gender equality. From marriage customs to the dangerous phenomenon of sorcery accusations, these practices often reinforce the unequal status of women and girls.
Key Facts
- Customary Practices: Traditions such as polygamy and bride price (dava) continue to perpetuate gender discrimination.
- Marriage Laws: Proposed amendments aim to set a minimum marriage age of 17, with fines for offenders ranging from K10,000 to K20,000.
- Sorcery Violence: An estimated 200 witch killings occur annually, primarily targeting vulnerable women and girls.
- Legal Status: While "white magic" (healing) is recognized, sorcery or "black magic" can result in up to two years of imprisonment.
- Advocacy: The Leniata Legacy group was formed to combat sorcery-related violence following the 2013 murder of Kepari Leniata.
Traditional Customary Practices and Gender Roles
In many parts of PNG, traditional customs dictate the roles and expectations of men and women. Practices such as polygamy (having more than one spouse) and bride price (dava)—the payment made by the groom's family to the bride's—remain prevalent. Furthermore, compensation payments in some customs may include women, reflecting a view of women as assets rather than individuals with full autonomy.
The CEDAW Committee (the UN committee monitoring the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women) has noted that these practices risk perpetuating discrimination. Because PNG has lacked sustained systematic action to modify or eliminate these stereotypical values, the unequal status of women persists in many areas of society.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Marriage and Legal Reforms
Marriage customs in PNG vary, particularly between urban centers and rural or remote areas. In remote regions, traditional practices govern not only marriage but also its dissolution, inheritance, and general family relations. These customs often include arranged or forced marriages, as well as early marriage for minors.
To address these issues, the PNG government announced on August 22, 2016, that it would introduce amendments to the Marriage Act 1963 and the Matrimonial (Clauses) Act 1963. The Marriage (Amendment) Bill 2015 and the Matrimonial (Clauses) Bill 2015 seek to establish a new minimum marriage age for both boys and girls. Under these proposed laws, those who force minors under the age of 17 to marry could face fines between K10,000 (approximately US$3,200) and K20,000 (approximately US$6,400).
Summary of Marriage and Customary Impacts
| Practice/Issue | Description | Legal/Institutional Response |
|---|---|---|
| Bride Price (Dava) | Payment from groom's family to bride's family | Identified by CEDAW as reinforcing inequality |
| Early Marriage | Marriage of minors, often forced or arranged | Proposed minimum age of 17; fines up to K20,000 |
| Polygamy | Practice of having multiple spouses | Viewed as a contributor to gender discrimination |
| Sorcery Accusations | Accusations of "black magic" leading to violence | Sorcery carries up to 2 years imprisonment |
The Crisis of Witch Hunts and Sorcery
One of the most violent manifestations of customary belief in PNG is the occurrence of witch killings, particularly in the Highlands. The UN estimates that roughly 200 such killings happen every year. The government distinguishes between "white magic," which is associated with fertility and healing, and sorcery, or "black magic," which is a criminal offense.
These attacks are typically carried out by groups of men, often with the involvement of the entire community. The victims are predominantly women and girls, specifically those who are most vulnerable, such as widows without sons or older women. In 2014, more than seven people were killed due to sorcery accusations, leading to 122 people being charged.
The CEDAW Committee has expressed grave concern over the torture and killing of these women, highlighting a critical lack of information. The Committee emphasizes that thorough investigations, prosecutions, and public judgments are necessary to fully understand and stop this phenomenon.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]The Leniata Legacy
The brutality of these practices was highlighted by the 2013 murder of Kepari Leniata, who was publicly tortured and burned to death after being accused of sorcery. In response to this tragedy, the women's advocacy group Leniata Legacy was founded to fight against sorcery-related violence and advocate for the protection of vulnerable women.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "bride price" in Papua New Guinea?
The bride price, known as dava, is a traditional payment made by the groom's family to the bride's family. It is one of several customary practices that the CEDAW Committee suggests may reinforce the unequal status of women.
What are the proposed penalties for forcing minors to marry in PNG?
Under the proposed amendments to the Marriage and Matrimonial Acts, offenders who force minors under the age of 17 to marry may be fined between K10,000 (US$3,200) and K20,000 (US$6,400).
How does the PNG government distinguish between different types of magic?
The government recognizes "white magic" as being related to healing and fertility. In contrast, sorcery or "black magic" is illegal and can result in a jail sentence of up to two years.
Who are the primary targets of witch hunts in PNG?
Witch hunts primarily target women and girls, especially those who are socially vulnerable, such as older women or widows who do not have adult sons.
What is the Leniata Legacy?
Leniata Legacy is a women's advocacy group established after the 2013 death of Kepari Leniata, who was tortured and killed following accusations of sorcery.