LocationsPapua New Guinean Youth Unite for the National Mock Youth Parliament 2024
November 21, 2024
The event is jointly hosted by UNDP and UNFPA with the support of the European Union and the United States
The grand chamber of the National Parliament Haus in Waigani, Port Moresby, resonated with the voices of young leaders on 18 November 2024 to mark the opening of Papua New Guinea’s National Mock Youth Parliament for 2024.
Hosted jointly by UNDP and UNFPA with the generous support of the “We the People” project of the United States Embassy in Papua New Guinea and the Europea Union-funded “Transparency and Accountability in Papua New Guinea” project, the event aims to cultivate a new generation of civic-minded leaders who understand governance and leadership principles vital for the nation's progress.
Under the theme, “Youth Leading Change through Civic Engagement for Social Impact and Sustainable Development,” the gathering underscores the importance of youth leadership in promoting transparency, equity, and sustainable development. The initiative serves as more than just a parliamentary simulation—it is a formative training ground for nurturing informed, engaged, and ethical leadership in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
Throughout the week, the youth will participate in workshops and legislative simulations that will prepare them for real-life civic roles
In his opening remarks, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in PNG, Aadil Mansoor, expressed his confidence in the potential of PNG's youth. “Today, we stand united by a shared vision: empowering youth to become informed, engaged, and ethical leaders of tomorrow”. He highlighted that while Papua New Guinea’s young population faces numerous challenges, including limited access to education and employment, their resilience and innovative spirit must be nurtured. “The Youth Mock Parliament is not just a simulation; it is a powerful exercise in nation-building,” he added, emphasizing the leadership qualities of listening, collaboration, compromise, and integrity.
In his remarks, the EU Ambassador, H.E. Jacques Fradin, emphasized the importance of dialogue, cooperation and actionable proposals for effective youth activism
In his remarks, the European Union Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, H.E. Jacques Fradin, highlighted the importance of committing to youth development. “Investing in and working with, by, and for youths is of paramount importance to achieve a legitimate, peaceful, and a democratic society where human rights, gender equality, and the rule of law are respected for all,” Ambassador Fradin stated. Based on his own experiences, he highlighted the importance of three things for youth making a difference in their societies: dialogue, cooperation and making actionable proposals.
UNDP Chief Technical Adviser on Anti-Corruption, Dr. Alma Sedlar, trained the youth on corruption and the role youth can play in stopping it
The National Youth Mock Parliament, which integrates support from the National Youth Development Authority (NYDA), the PNG National Parliament, UN OHCHR, and PNG Tribal Foundation, offers workshops and legislative simulations that prepare youth for real-life civic roles. One of the key highlights of the week will be the Social Impact Pitch Project, which enables participants to craft and present practical solutions for pressing community challenges. These experiences equip young leaders with public speaking, project management, and advocacy skills, ensuring the event’s influence extends beyond the parliamentary chambers.
The youth will participate in a Social Impact Pitch Project, which will enable them to present practical solutions to pressing community challenges.
Also present at the opening ceremony were the United States Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, H.E. Ann Marie Yastishock; the Deputy Clerk of the National Parliament, Basil Kambuliagen; Director of the National Youth Development Authority, Joe Itaki; and UNFPA Country Representative, Saira Shaheem.
The National Mock Youth Parliament 2024 stands as a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives. With strong backing from the UNDP, UNFPA, EU, U.S. Embassy, and other key partners, it symbolizes hope and a step toward a future where PNG’s youth lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose.