Dutch Disease and Its Impact on Papua New Guinea's Economy: A Valid Argument?

Introduction 

Dutch Disease is a phenomenon that occurs when a country experiences a boom in natural resource extraction, leading to an appreciation of its currency and a decline in other sectors of the economy. This phenomenon has been observed in several countries, including the Netherlands, Australia, and Papua New Guinea (PNG). In this blog, we will discuss the impact of Dutch Disease on PNG's economy and whether the argument is valid.

The Impact of Dutch Disease on PNG's Economy

The impact of Dutch Disease on PNG's economy has been a subject of debate among economists and policymakers. Some argue that the boom in natural resource extraction has led to an appreciation of the kina (PNG's currency), making imports cheaper and hurting other sectors of the economy. Others argue that the impact of Dutch Disease on PNG's economy is limited, as the other economic sectors outside mining are small and cannot be affected too much.

 Is the Argument Valid?

The argument that Dutch Disease is affecting PNG's economy is valid to some extent. The appreciation of the kina due to the boom in natural resource extraction has led to inflationary pressures and a decline in other sectors of the economy. However, the impact of Dutch Disease on PNG's economy is limited, as the other economic sectors outside mining are small and cannot be affected too much. Moreover, the recent growth in PNG's economy, buoyed by higher commodity prices, suggests that the country's economy can grow faster.

Conclusion

Dutch Disease is a phenomenon that occurs when a country experiences a boom in natural resource extraction, leading to an appreciation of its currency and a decline in other sectors of the economy. The impact of Dutch Disease on PNG's economy is a subject of debate among economists and policymakers. While the argument that Dutch Disease is affecting PNG's economy is valid to some extent, the impact is limited, as the other economic sectors outside mining are small and cannot be affected too much. With the right policies and practices in place, the management of natural resources in PNG can be done in a way that promotes sustainable development, protects the environment, and benefits local communities.

This is the first series of blogs discussion of the political economy

Citations

[1] https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2022/09/14/png-economy-returns-to-growth-buoyed-by-higher-commodity-prices

[2] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/app5.205

[3] https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/WP/Issues/2016/12/31/The-Macroeconomic-Effects-of-Natural-Resource-Extraction-Applications-to-Papua-New-Guinea-40623

[4] https://artnet.unescap.org/publications/working-papers/papua-new-guinea-and-natural-resource-curse

[5] https://www.wallstreetmojo.com/dutch-disease/

[6] https://thekeep.eiu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=5650&context=theses

Lawmaking Challenges in Papua New Guinea Parliament: Recommendations for a Stronger Democracy

 Papua New Guinea's parliamentary democracy faces several challenges that hinder the effective lawmaking process. These challenges include the dominance of the executive legislative process, inadequate time given to the bills committee, and the need to review standing orders and the parliamentary committee Act 1994. Additionally, parliamentarians often lack adequate understanding of proposed legislation, which further complicates the lawmaking process.

 Dominance of Executive Legislative Process

 The executive legislative process in Papua New Guinea is often dominant, which means that the executive branch of government has significant control over the lawmaking process. This dominance can lead to a lack of transparency and accountability in the lawmaking process, which can undermine the democratic process. To address this challenge, the parliament needs to assert its independence and ensure that the legislative process is transparent and accountable.

 Inadequate Time Given to Bills Committee

 The bills committee is responsible for reviewing proposed legislation and making recommendations to parliament. However, the committee often has inadequate time to review bills thoroughly, which can lead to poorly drafted legislation. To address this challenge, the parliament needs to provide the bills committee with adequate time to review proposed legislation and make recommendations.

 Review of Standing Orders and Parliamentary Committee Act 1994

The standing orders and parliamentary committee Act 1994 need to be reviewed to ensure that they are effective in supporting the lawmaking process. The review should focus on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the lawmaking process, ensuring that the parliament is transparent and accountable, and promoting public participation in the lawmaking process.

 Parliamentarians Not Having Adequate Understanding of Proposed Legislation

 Parliamentarians often lack adequate understanding of proposed legislation, which can lead to poor decision-making and ineffective laws. To address this challenge, regulatory procedures should be reviewed to ensure that all members of parliament have adequate understanding of proposed legislation before parliamentary debate.

 Recommendations

1. Standing orders need to provide for people's views to ensure that the lawmaking process is transparent and accountable.

2. Laws and status on members of parliament in terms of their codes of conduct should be reviewed to ensure that they are effective in promoting ethical behavior and accountability.

3. Regulatory procedures should be reviewed to have all members of parliament have an adequate

understanding of the proposed legislation before parliamentary debate.

In conclusion, strengthening the parliamentary democracy in Papua New Guinea requires addressing the challenges facing the lawmaking process. By asserting its independence, providing adequate time for the bills committee, reviewing standing orders and the parliamentary committee Act 1994, and ensuring that parliamentarians have adequate understanding of proposed legislation, Papua New Guinea can build a stronger democracy that is transparent, accountable, and effective.

 Citations:

[1] https://www.academia.edu/38451314/Women_and_Politics_in_Presence_Case_of_Papua_New_Guinea_pdf

[2] https://www.files.ethz.ch/isn/87018/2005-12-19.pdf

[3] https://www.academia.edu/27542988/A_Melanesian_Icon_Professor_Bernard_Mullu_Narokobi_Ca_1940_2010_

[4] https://erc.undp.org/evaluation/documents/download/1452

[5] https://pacificinstitute.anu.edu.au/sites/default/files/resources-links/Pandanus/Building_a_Nation_in_Papua_New_Guinea.pdf

[6] https://www.lowyinstitute.org/sites/default/files/pubfiles/Scott%2C_Reimagining_PNG_1.pdf

The Challenges of a Westminster System of Government in Papua New Guinea after 1975

 Introduction

Since gaining independence in 1975, Papua New Guinea has adopted a Westminster system of government. This system, inherited from its colonial past, has posed several challenges for the country. In this blog, we will discuss three key challenges faced by the Westminster system in Papua New Guinea after 1975.

 1. Adjournment of Parliament

One of the challenges faced by the Westminster system in Papua New Guinea is the issue of adjournment of parliament. According to section 124(1) of the constitution, it is mandatory for parliament to sit for 63 days in a 12-month period. However, there have been instances where the government has adjourned parliament for extended periods of time. For example, in 1997-98, the government adjourned parliament for 7 months, and in 2021, it adjourned for 4 months. 

This prolonged adjournment of parliament raises concerns about the effectiveness of the system in ensuring regular legislative activities and democratic accountability. It can hinder the timely discussion and resolution of important issues, leading to a lack of transparency and accountability in governance.

2. Perception of Corruption in Parliament

Another challenge faced by the Westminster system in Papua New Guinea is the perception of corruption within the parliament. There is a widespread belief that there are two sets of rules - one for the common people and another for the politicians. This stereotype undermines the importance of parliament in representing and serving the interests of the people.

The perception of corruption within the parliament can erode public trust and confidence in the democratic process. It hampers the ability of the system to effectively address the needs and aspirations of the citizens. Efforts to address this challenge should focus on promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct among parliamentarians.

3. Patronage and Dual Responsibility

The third challenge is related to patronage and the dual responsibility of Members of Parliament (MPs). In Papua New Guinea, MPs not only serve as legislators but also as fund managers. This dual role can have implications for their effectiveness as lawmakers. The overuse of constitutional grants, which allows MPs to allocate funds for development projects in their constituencies, has resulted in executive dominance and a concentration of power. This can undermine the separation of powers and the checks and balances necessary for a functioning democracy.

Furthermore, the dual responsibility of MPs as fund managers can divert their attention and resources away from their primary role as legislators. This can lead to a neglect of important legislative duties and hinder the effective functioning of the Westminster system.

Conclusion

The challenges faced by the Westminster system of government in Papua New Guinea after 1975 highlight the need for reforms and improvements to ensure effective governance and democratic accountability. Addressing the issues of adjournment of parliament, perception of corruption, and patronage and dual responsibility will require concerted efforts from both the government and the citizens.

By promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct, Papua New Guinea can strengthen its democratic institutions and ensure that the Westminster system serves the best interests of its people.

References

1. Is PNG's Westminster system worth keeping? - East Asia Forum (https://www.eastasiaforum.org/2013/10/05/is-pngs-westminster-system-worth-keeping/)

Supporting Citations

[1] https://www.eastasiaforum.org/2013/10/05/is-pngs-westminster-system-worth-keeping/

[2] https://przegladeuropejski.com.pl/article/01.3001.0013.5173/en

[3] https://www.britannica.com/place/Papua-New-Guinea/Government-and-society

[4] https://constitutionnet.org/news/future-governance-papua-new-guinea-consultations-begin-form-and-system-government

[5] https://www.csis.org/analysis/addressing-fragility-papua-new-guinea

[6] https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/426851468145477761/pdf/686490ESW0P11400in0Papua0New0Guinea.pdf

Weak Political Party System in Papua New Guinea 1975 - 2002

Introduction 

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has a parliamentary representative democratic multi-party system, with the Prime Minister as the head of government and the monarch serving as head of state. However, the political party system in PNG has been characterized by instability, weak party organization and structures, and a lack of ideological premise and discipline. In this blog, we will discuss the following themes:

1. Fluid and weak party organization and structures

2. Political Party allegiance are personal and localized

3. Political parties without ideological premise and discipline

4. Party hoping and coalition become localized and personalized

Fluid and weak party organization and structures

Political parties in PNG have been characterized by weak organizational structures, with parties often being formed around a single individual or family. Parties are often formed and dissolved quickly, with members frequently switching parties. This has led to a lack of institutionalization and continuity in the party system.

Political Party allegiance are personal and localized

In PNG, political party allegiance is often based on personal relationships and local affiliations rather than ideology or policy. This has led to a highly localized and personalized party system, with parties often representing the interests of a particular region or ethnic group rather than the nation as a whole.

 Political parties without ideological premise and discipline

Most political parties in PNG lack a clear ideological premise or policy platform. This has led to a lack of discipline within parties, with members often voting based on personal interests rather than party lines. Parties are often formed around a charismatic leader rather than a set of shared values or beliefs.

Party hoping and coalition become localized and personalized

Party hoping and coalition-building are common in PNG, with members frequently switching parties and forming coalitions based on personal relationships and local affiliations. This has led to a highly personalized and localized party system, with parties often representing the interests of a particular region or ethnic group rather than the nation as a whole.

In conclusion, the political party system in PNG has been characterized by instability, weak party organization and structures, and a lack of ideological premise and discipline. Political party allegiance is often based on personal relationships and local affiliations rather than ideology or policy. Parties are often formed around a charismatic leader rather than a set of shared values or beliefs. Party hoping and coalition-building are common, leading to a highly personalized and localized party system.

Citations

[1] https://crawford.anu.edu.au/pdf/staff/ben_reilly/breilly3.pdf

[2] https://www.lowyinstitute.org/the-interpreter/party-politics-papua-new-guinea

[3] https://2009-2017.state.gov/outofdate/bgn/papuanewguinea/35862.htm

[4] https://www.ndi.org/files/Political-parties-and-democracy-in-theoretical-and-practical-perspectives.pdf

[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Politics_of_Papua_New_Guinea

[6] https://www.nap.edu/read/9897/chapter/12

The Secessionist Movement and Political Decentralization in Papua New Guinea

 Introduction

Papua New Guinea, a country that gained independence from Australia in 1975, experienced a secessionist movement prior to its independence. This movement was particularly prominent in the southern region of Papua and the district of Bougainville. In response to these movements and to address grievances, the government of Papua New Guinea implemented political decentralization through the creation of the Organic Law on Provincial Government in 1973. This law aimed to establish a system of governance that would promote efficiency, accountability, and self-reliance at the provincial level. In this blog, we will explore the secessionist movement and the impact of political decentralization in Papua New Guinea.

The Secessionist Movement

1. The Papuan nationalist movement: The Papuan nationalist movement emerged as a challenge to the Papua New Guinea state in early 1970s to independence. However, it lacked cohesive support and gradually faded away. The involvement of the well-educated local elite in government and commerce contributed to the movement's decline.

2. Bougainville: The district of Bougainville, known for its important copper and gold mine at Panguna, became the center of the most dramatic challenge to the Papua New Guinea state. The Bougainville Revolutionary Army (BRA) was formed in 1988, leading to a civil war that lasted until 1998. Grievances over environmental damage, lack of benefits for local people, and perceived neglect from the central government fueled the conflict.

 Political Decentralization

1. The Organic Law on Provincial Government: The Organic Law on Provincial Government, enacted in 1973, aimed to decentralize political power and promote self-rule at the provincial level. It sought to address grievances and prevent further conflicts by granting more autonomy and self-reliance to local governments.

2. Implementation challenges: The implementation of decentralization faced challenges, including conflicts between national aims and difficulties in capacity-building at the local government level. Reconciling decentralization with the goal of equality was particularly challenging.

Impact and Future Developments

1. Bougainville Peace Agreement: The Bougainville Peace Agreement, signed in 2001, recognized the importance of decentralization and provided for the establishment of an autonomous Bougainville government. This agreement aimed to bring stability and address the fluid party affiliations of Papua New Guinea's politicians. 

2. Continuing challenges: Papua New Guinea continues to grapple with issues of decentralization and governance. The country's post-independence relationship with Australia, its former colonial ruler, has also been a factor in its political development.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the secessionist movement in Papua New Guinea prior to its independence and the subsequent implementation of political decentralization through the Organic Law on Provincial Government in 1973 have shaped the country's political landscape. While the secessionist movement faded over time, the challenges and grievances it highlighted led to the adoption of decentralization as a means to address these issues. The impact of decentralization and the ongoing efforts to strengthen governance and self-rule at the provincial level continue to shape Papua New Guinea's political climate.

Citations:

[1] https://successfulsocieties.princeton.edu/document

[2] https://www.britannica.com/place/Papua-New-Guinea/Attempts-at-secession

[3] https://successfulsocieties.princeton.edu/publications/provincial-secessionists-and-decentralization-papua-new-guinea-1985-1995

[4] https://successfulsocieties.princeton.edu/document

[5] https://pngnri.org/images/Publications/DP_143

[6] https://www.jstor.org/stable/

The Absence of Civil Society and the Rise of Ethnic Groups in Papua New Guinea: Impact on Political Party Development

Introduction:

In Papua New Guinea, the absence of a strong civil society has contributed to the rise of ethnic groups and the formation of boundaries in the country's structural politics. This has had a significant impact on the development of political parties and the functioning of democracy. Benjamin Rielly, in his paper "Making Democracy Work in Papua New Guinea," explores the role of social capital and provincial development in an ethnically fragmented society. This blog will discuss the ideas presented by Rielly and shed light on the challenges faced by political parties in Papua New Guinea.

1. The Role of Social Capital

Rielly argues that social capital, which refers to the networks, relationships, and trust within a society, plays a crucial role in the functioning of democracy. In Papua New Guinea, the absence of strong social capital has hindered the development of political parties and their ability to effectively represent the interests of the people. 

2. Ethnic Fragmentation and Boundaries

The ethnically fragmented nature of Papua New Guinea has led to the formation of ethnic groups and boundaries, which often supersede national identity. This has resulted in the prioritization of ethnic interests over broader national interests, making it challenging for political parties to build broad-based support.

3. Impact on Political Party Development

The absence of civil society and the dominance of ethnic groups have affected the development of political parties in Papua New Guinea in several ways: 

    (a) Limited Ideological Framework: Political parties in Papua New Guinea often lack a clear ideological framework, as they tend to focus more on ethnic interests rather than broader policy agendas. 

    (b) Fragmented Support: The dominance of ethnic groups and boundaries has led to fragmented support for political parties, making it difficult to build broad-based coalitions and achieve political stability.

    (c) Patronage and Clientelism: The absence of strong civil society has created a political culture characterized by patronage and clientelism, where political parties rely on personal connections and favors rather than policy platforms.

4. Implications for Democracy and Development

The challenges faced by political parties in Papua New Guinea have significant implications for democracy and development in the country:

    (a) Limited Accountability: The absence of strong political parties hinders accountability mechanisms, making it difficult to hold elected officials responsible for their actions.

    (b) Inequality and Marginalization: The focus on ethnic interests can perpetuate inequality and marginalization, as certain groups may receive preferential treatment while others are left behind.

    (c) Policy Implementation Challenges: The lack of broad-based support and ideological clarity within political parties can hinder effective policy implementation and development initiatives.

Conclusion

The absence of civil society and the rise of ethnic groups in Papua New Guinea have had a significant impact on the development of political parties and the functioning of democracy. Addressing these challenges requires strengthening social capital, promoting inclusive politics, and fostering a sense of national identity that transcends ethnic boundaries. By doing so, Papua New Guinea can work towards a more inclusive and effective democratic system that promotes the interests of all its citizens.

Citations,

[1] https://library.fes.de/libalt/journals/swetsfulltext/15592826.pdf

[2] https://researchprofiles.anu.edu.au/en/publications/making-democracy-work-in-papua-new-guinea-social-capital-and-prov

[3] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/249973162_Making_Democracy_Work_in_Papua_New_Guinea_Social_Capital_and_Provincial_Development_in_an_Ethnically_Fragmented_Society

[4] http://www.eods.eu/library/NDI.Political%20Parties%20And%20Democracy%20In%20Theoretical%20And%20Practical%20Perspectives.pdf

[5] https://www.idea.int/publications/catalogue/political-parties-conflict-prone-societies

[6] https://www.lowyinstitute.org/sites/default/files/pubfiles/Scott%2C_Reimagining_PNG_1.pdf

The 1973 Self-Government of Papua New Guinea: Debates Between Pangu Pati and Other Nationalists and the Australian Government under Prime Minister Gough Whitlam

In 1973, Papua New Guinea was granted self-government, marking a significant milestone in the country's history. The road to self-government was not without its challenges, however, as debates raged between nationalist groups like the Pangu Pati and the Australian government under Prime Minister Gough Whitlam. In this blog post, we will explore the debates that took place and the factors that led to Papua New Guinea's self-government.

Background

Papua New Guinea was a former colony of Australia, which had established a joint administration over both territories in 1949. In the years that followed, indigenous representatives were gradually elected to the majority of seats in the legislature, and the country was renamed Papua New Guinea (PNG) in 1971. By the early 1970s, there was growing momentum for self-government, with nationalist groups like the Pangu Pati leading the charge.

The Pangu Pati and Other Nationalists

The Pangu Pati was founded in 1967 by Michael Somare, who would later become the first Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea. The party was committed to achieving self-government for the country and was a driving force behind the push for independence. However, the Pangu Pati was not the only nationalist group in Papua New Guinea at the time. Other groups, such as the United Party and the People's Progress Party, also had their own visions for the country's future.

Debates with the Australian Government

The Australian government, under Prime Minister Gough Whitlam, was also involved in the debates surrounding Papua New Guinea's self-government. Whitlam was a member of the Australian Labor Party, which had a longstanding commitment to decolonization and self-determination. However, there were concerns within the Australian government about the readiness of Papua New Guinea for self-government. Some officials worried that the country was not yet economically or politically stable enough to govern itself.

Despite these concerns, the push for self-government continued. In 1973, Papua New Guinea was granted self-government, with Michael Somare as the head of the governing Executive Council. The country would achieve full independence two years later, in 1975.

Conclusion

The 1973 self-government of Papua New Guinea was a significant moment in the country's history. The debates between nationalist groups like the Pangu Pati and the Australian government under Prime Minister Gough Whitlam were an important part of the process. Ultimately, Papua New Guinea was able to achieve self-government and independence, paving the way for its future as a sovereign nation.

Citations:

[1] https://www.jstor.org/stable/20634526

[2] https://www.jstor.org/stable/2643584

[3] https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-15593238

[4] http://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/pdfplus/10.1086/451140

[5] https://www.dfat.gov.au/sites/default/files/australia-and-papua-new-guinea-1966-1969.pdf

[6] https://2009-2017.state.gov/outofdate/bgn/papuanewguinea/91130.htm

Political Parties in Papua New Guinea: Formation of Pangu Party, Party Alignments in 1972, Policy Disputes, and the Path to Independence

Introduction:

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has a diverse political landscape, shaped by various political parties and their ideologies. In this blog, we will delve into the political parties in PNG, focusing on key aspects discussed by David Hegarty in his works. We will explore the formation of the Pangu Party, party alignments in 1972, the interval of policy disputes, and the convergence towards pro-capitalist policies leading up to independence.

Formation of Pangu Party

The Pangu Party played a significant role in the political history of PNG. It was formed in 1967 and led by Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare. The party emerged as a nationalist force advocating for immediate independence from Australian rule. Pangu Party gained popularity among the younger generation, who sought a swift transition to self-governance.

Party Alignments in 1972

In 1972, PNG witnessed a realignment of political parties. The United Party, which had been the dominant force, faced challenges as some members defected to the Pangu Party. This shift in party alignments reflected the growing support for Pangu's nationalist agenda and desire for self-determination. The political landscape became more competitive, setting the stage for the upcoming elections.

Interval of Policy Disputes

During the period leading up to independence, PNG experienced policy disputes among the political parties. These disputes were often centered around issues such as economic development, resource management, and the role of foreign investment. Different parties had varying visions for the country's future, leading to heated debates and negotiations. These policy disputes reflected the complexities of nation-building and the challenges of balancing diverse interests.

Independence and Pro-Capitalist Convergence:

As PNG moved closer to independence, there was a convergence towards pro-capitalist policies. The government recognized the importance of attracting foreign investment and promoting economic growth. This shift in ideology was influenced by global trends and the desire to establish PNG as a viable player in the international arena. However, this pro-capitalist approach also raised concerns about potential exploitation and the impact on local communities.

Conclusion:

The political parties in Papua New Guinea have played a crucial role in shaping the country's path to independence and its subsequent development. The formation of the Pangu Party, party alignments in 1972, policy disputes, and the convergence towards pro-capitalist policies all contributed to the complex political landscape of PNG. Understanding the dynamics of these parties and their ideologies provides valuable insights into the political history and challenges faced by the nation.

References:

1.  Political Parties in Papua New Guinea

2.  The 'Fluid' Party System of Papua New Guinea

3.  Party Politics in Papua New Guinea: A Deviant Case?

4.  "Making Democracy Work" in Papua New Guinea: Social Capital and Provincial Development in An Ethnically Fragmented Society

5. Development and Dependency 

6. Azeem Amarshi, Kenneth Good and Rex Mortimer in their Development and Dependency: The political economy of Papua New Guinea " Chapter 14 " David Hegarty" 

The Gradual Approach to Development in Papua New Guinea before Independence: A Historical Overview

Introduction 

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has a rich history of development, spanning from the colonial period to the present day. This blog post will explore the gradual approach to development in PNG from 1884 to 1975, focusing on two key themes: the Hasluck governing system and the friendly New Guinea policy. These themes shed light on the paternalistic approach of the colonial government towards development, as well as the shift towards a more proactive approach in the post-World War II era.

 The Hasluck Governing System

The Hasluck governing system was embedded in paternalism, which aimed to keep control over the natives. The 1921 Native Administration Act was a key example of this system, which aimed to regulate the lives of the indigenous population. Under this act, the colonial government appointed village headmen to act as intermediaries between the government and the people. This system was designed to maintain control over the population and prevent any potential uprisings.

The Friendly New Guinea Policy

The friendly New Guinea policy was essential to Australia, as it aimed to prevent any potential threats to Australia's security. This policy hinted at a change in policy tone from an uninterested policy tone to one where the need to speed up development was recognized. This shift was due to the fall of Dutch in Indonesia, decolonization, and the 1962 Foot Report. The Foot Report recommended that Australia should take a more proactive approach to development in PNG, as it was in Australia's national interest to do so.

The Impact of Development on Agriculture

The idea of development had a significant impact on agriculture in late colonial PNG. The colonial government introduced new agricultural practices, such as the cultivation of cash crops like coffee and cocoa. These crops were grown for export and were a significant source of revenue for the colonial government. However, the introduction of cash crops had some negative impact on subsistence agriculture, which was the primary source of food for the indigenous population. The shift towards cash crops led to some areas that saw a decline in substances agriculture that affected food security. 

 The Language of Instruction Controversy

The language of instruction controversy was another key issue in the gradual approach to development in PNG. The colonial government introduced English as the language of instruction in schools, which was a significant departure from the indigenous languages that were spoken in PNG. This policy was designed to assimilate the indigenous population into Western culture and values. However, this policy was met with resistance from the indigenous population, who were sometimes incapable to communicate with the trend in development during that period. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the gradual approach to development in PNG was characterized by a paternalistic approach towards the indigenous population. The Hasluck
governing system and the friendly New Guinea policy were two key themes that shaped the approach to development in PNG. While the colonial government introduced new agricultural practices and policies, these policies often had negative impacts on the indigenous population. The language of instruction controversy was another key issue that highlighted the tension between the colonial government and the indigenous population. The gradual approach to development in PNG has had a lasting impact on the country and its people, shaping its history and identity.

Citations

[1] https://openresearch-repository.anu.edu.au/bitstream/1885/151517/2/b24635686%20_MacWilliam_S.pdf

[2] https://www.dfat.gov.au/sites/default/files/australia-and-papua-new-guinea-1966-1969.pdf

[3] https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED133808.pdf

[4] http://learningportal.iiep.unesco.org/en/blog/the-language-of-instruction-controversy-in-papua-new-guinea

[5] https://smarthistory.org/an-introduction-to-photography-in-the-early-20th-century/

[6] https://www.jstor.org/stable/44256379