By postcourieronline
Copyright postcourier
The Open Government Partnership’s (OGP) Third National Action Plan (2025–2029) and the National Social Accountability Framework (SAF) regional consultations have energised national efforts to strengthen governance.
The consultations have brought civil society leaders, government officials, and international partners at the subnational and district level together to shape reforms that prioritise transparency and accountability. The New Ireland Province raised its hand to be a pilot area for these reforms.
Australia and Papua New Guinea, both are members of the global OGP initiative and are working together to promote open government and inclusive development.
Participants reviewed 25 draft commitments under the OGP plan, covering areas such as Freedom of Information, Digital Transformation, and Fiscal Transparency. Discussions centred on how civil society can bridge the gap between citizens and government, ensuring reforms are grounded in community realities.
The first priority under the National Action Plan will address social accountability in health and education services. Key next steps include finalising Memorandums of Understanding with government agencies, launching a national communication strategy, and promoting local ownership of the action plan.
Australia’s continued support through the PNGAusPartnership will assist in these initiatives. The Open Government Partnership (OGP) is a global effort fostering collaboration for enhanced transparency and citizen engagement, with PNG actively participating in this initiative as the 78th member.