Papua New Guinea’s resource sector has a new blueprint to tackle workplace safety and diversity, following the launch of the Gender Equality and Social Inclusion or GESI Policy Statement.
The policy, launched by the PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy (PNG CORE) during PNG Resources Week 2026, was championed by the Women in Resources and Energy (WIRE) Committee. It sets clear standards for diversity, safety, and inclusion across mining, petroleum, and energy operations.
The framework directly targets the structural, legal, and cultural barriers women face in the industry, aiming to change how they enter, contribute, and lead.
To achieve this, the policy pushes for immediate shifts in daily workplace culture. It calls on companies to build respectful workplaces by actively removing bullying, gender bias, intimidation, and sexual harassment.
Hiring, salaries, and promotions must be strictly based on merit, ensuring capable workers are not held back by barriers unrelated to their skills. The framework also demands stronger leadership accountability, flexible work practices, and practical support for employees affected by family and domestic violence.
The policy emphasizes that inclusion cannot stop at the gate of a mine, project site, or corporate office. For progress to be real, it must be supported by clear systems, trusted reporting channels, and consistent leadership.
