Papua New Guinea (PNG) is hosting a three-day Conference on the Community of Practice for Social Protection from the 12th to 14th of May this week at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby city.
This event is hosted by the Department for Community Development and Religion, who is one of the three custodian government agencies entrusted with Social Protection. The conference is also supported by the Australian Government through DFAT and World Bank.
This conference provides an important platform for sharing knowledge, expertise, experiences and practical lessons from advocators, organizations and practitioners from twelve (12) Pacific Island Countries. Through peer learning, collaboration, and open dialogue, this conference aims to generate new ideas and identify practical approaches to better support and protect the vulnerable and marginalized member of affected communities within the Pacific Region.
Speaking at the Welcome Dinner Reception for the participants on Monday evening, Minister for Youth, Religion and Community Development, Jason Peter welcomed the visiting delegates saying that Papua New Guinea is deeply honored to host representatives and practitioners from across the Pacific Region.
“Your presence here this evening reflects our collective commitment and effort to strengthening social protection systems that respond meaningfully to the realities faced by our communities across the Pacific.
“Across the Pacific, we continue to face many common development challenges. Poverty and unemployment remain pressing concerns for many households and communities. At the same time, our region is experiencing changing demographics, including the growing needs of aging populations, while persons living with disabilities continue to face barriers in accessing opportunities and essential services,” said the Minister.
He also emphasized that Social Protection is simply not a policy discussion. It is about protecting lives, preserving dignity, and building resilience for our people that continue to be affected by natural disasters and the impacts of climate change.
“Every country represented here brings valuable experiences, innovations and perspectives that can contribute to stronger outcomes for our region as a whole. There is much we can learn from one another, from successful programs and policy reforms to community-based approaches and practical experiences in implementing social protection initiatives within our unique pacific contexts.
May this Community of Practice for the Social Protection strengthen our partnerships, deepen our understanding and inspire practical actions that will improve the wellbeing and resilience of our people across the Pacific Region.” the Minister concluded.
The three-day conference commenced today, Tuesday 12th May, and will end on Thursday 14th May.
