Papua New Guinea: Government intervention averts service disruption amid compounding health crises

Written By Paul Prouse

Around 23 March, the Papua New Guinea Nurses Association (PNGNA) threatened a nationwide sit-in on 1 April over unpaid allowances dating back to 2025. The Government’s Personnel Management Department labeled the planned action illegal but urged departments to expedite payments. On 1 April, the PNGNA called off the strike after successful negotiations with the Government, with payments expected from June to July 2026.

Assessment: The Government’s intervention demonstrates its efforts to keep the health sector functioning, preventing service disruptions and maintaining staff morale amid disease outbreaks, supply shortages, and natural disasters.

Sources: Samantha Kati, “Nurses threaten nationwide strike,” The National, March 23, 2026; “Nurses planned protest illegal: Government,” The National, March 30, 2026; “Nurses awards plan confirmed,” NBC, April 1, 2026.

Paul Prouse
Previous

West Papua: Latest attack and Indonesian security operation a symptom of ongoing escalation rather than a trigger
Next

Solomon Islands: Opposition has the initiative, favourable court ruling highly likely to boost motion of no confidence, whereas delay will favour Prime Minister Manele