NEC Decision: Review of Disaster and Emergency Response Mechanism in Papua New Guinea

Disasters, both natural and human-induced, pose significant challenges to the safety, resilience, and development of nations worldwide. ​ Papua New Guinea, with its unique geographical and socio-economic context, is no exception. Recognizing the need for a robust and coordinated approach to disaster and emergency management, the National Executive Council (NEC) of Papua New Guinea has taken a decisive step towards reviewing the country’s disaster and emergency response mechanisms. ​ 

Hence, the NEC has approved a comprehensive review of the country’s disaster and emergency response mechanism under NEC Decision No. ​ 200/2024. This decision, announced by Prime Minister Hon. ​ James Marape in Parliament on 20 March 2025, aims to strengthen disaster and emergency management mechanism in alignment with international best practices, particularly the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030. ​ 

The review seeks to explore and adapt disaster and emergency management approaches tailored to Papua New Guinea’s unique national context. ​ It emphasizes the need for more effective and coordinated responses to both natural and human-induced disasters. ​ A key concept under consideration is the establishment of a National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA). ​ This proposed entity would unify key government agencies involved in disaster management, including the National Disaster Centre, National Weather Service, PNG Fire Service, Port Moresby Geophysical Observatory, Rabaul Volcanological Observatory, and Ambulance Services, under a single coordinated structure. ​ 

The review was officially launched on 5 May 2025 in Port Moresby by the Minister for Defence and Disaster Management, Hon. ​ Dr Billy Joseph. ​ During the launch, the NEC-appointed Review Team was introduced, and the Government funding allocation of K5 million to support the review process was announced. ​ The findings are expected to be delivered by the end of 2025. 

Since the launch, the Review Team has initiated consultations with government agencies, provincial administrations, and disaster risk management partners. ​ These consultations aim to identify current challenges and areas for improvement, guiding the development of recommendations to enhance coordination, efficiency, and long-term resilience in Papua New Guinea’s disaster and emergency management framework. ​