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