Papua New Guinea Boosts Police Funding to Strengthen Force

The Papua New Guinea government has committed significant funds to strengthen the country’s police force, aiming to create a more effective and modern law enforcement agency.

The 2025 Budget includes an additional $158.6 million in funding for the police department, representing a 67 percent increase from last year. This injection of resources will enable the police to increase wages by 19 percent and grow the force by 10,000 officers by 2030.

Increased Spending on Critical Resources

The increased spending will also provide more money for critical resources such as vehicles, fuel, housing, office accommodation, and ammunition. This move is aimed at supporting the police’s efforts to address modern law enforcement challenges.

“We will give them a 19 percent increase in wages so they are able to grow the force by 10,000 by 2030,” said Ian Ling-Stuckey, PNG Treasurer.

Positive Outlook from Business Analysts

Business analysis company Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PwC) has given the Budget a thumbs up, forecasting robust GDP growth of 4.9 percent this year and 4.7 percent next year. This indicates a move away from the resource sector, which will be growing more slowly, towards a more balanced and sustainable economy.

“The allocation of more than a third of spending to health and education reflects a strong commitment to social development and human capital investment,” said PwC.

Inflation and Economic Growth

Inflation in PNG is expected to be 4.5 percent, which is slightly lower than the forecasted GDP growth rates. The move towards a more balanced economy also signals a reduction in reliance on the resource sector.

“We will give them a 19 percent increase in wages so they are able to grow the force by 10,000 by 2030,” said Peter Tsiamalili Jr, Papua New Guinea’s Police Minister.

Conclusion

The increased funding for the police department is seen as a positive step towards creating a safer and more effective law enforcement agency in Papua New Guinea. With robust GDP growth forecasts and a commitment to social development, the country is taking steps towards a more balanced and sustainable economy.

The government’s investment in the police force will help address modern law enforcement challenges and support the country’s economic development.