Following the success of the first National Mock Youth Parliament in 2021, UNFPA facilitated the second Youth Parliament, to advance youth-led political advocacy and participation. 60 Youth participants, from across the country, aged between 15 and 29 attended the mock parliament, held at the PNG National Parliament, from 7-11 November. The week-long event provided the young participants with the opportunity to increase their knowledge and skills in advocacy, good governance, and political participation with a focus on advancing gender equality and sexual and reproductive health and rights in PNG.

Youth who were in attendance were required to have a background or experience in Leading or being part of youth initiatives, networks, and organisations focused on advocacy and awareness relating to issues affecting young people. This includes GBV, Youth Adolescent & Sexual Reproductive health, and Anti-Corruption Initiatives.

UNDP Resident Representative, Dirk Wagener, in his opening remarks, stated that; giving the youth opportunity to become part of the National Parliament for one week, their voice to be heard, to learn about the fundamental democratic and governance principles, and legislation making processes, is a critical step forward.

‘’This National Youth Mock Parliament will empower you as future leaders, develop your advocacy and leadership skills, increase your knowledge on good governance, anti-corruption and political participation, and develop your full potential to contribute positively towards the future of Papua New Guinea,’’ he said.

UNDP under the ‘Anti-Corruption Project’, delivered a presentation focused on ethics and leadership, followed with a Panel discussion, exploring the current and future status of Youth anti-corruption initiatives in PNG.

Youth are recognized as an important partner within the PNG Anti-Corruption Project.