Section 55 of the Constitution of Papua New Guinea calls for; “Equality for citizens in all areas of social, economic and political development irrespective of race, tribe, place of origin, political opinion, colour, creed, religion or sex”.
The GESI Policy is a national initiative of the Department of Personal Management (DPM) approved by the National Executive Council (NEC) on the 20th December, 2012. The policy strongly builds on the specific foundations set in the Public Service Management Act (PSMA), Public Service (PS) Code of Business Ethics & Conduct and the General Order, specifically General Order (GO) 20, (52 – 82) & Vision 2050 – Pillar No. 1- “Human Capital Development, Gender, Youth & People Empowerment”
The Department of National Planning and Monitoring is yet to launch its internal GESI Policy, however has over the last three years established its GESI desk which is now recognised as an important function of the Corporate Governance and Compliance Division. Apart from the GESI Desk Officer, there is a male and female GESI advocate located in the department.
The DNPM provides equal opportunities for all its staff, encouraging gender equality in terms of employment and management positions with a long-term focus of continuously cultivating, growing and operating a gender balanced environment in the workplace that is inclusive, merit based and healthy, whilst at the same time recognizing individual values and expectations where staff are encouraged to realise their full potential. Currently there is 50% gender equality on senior and middle management positions in the Department.
Gender describes the different roles and responsibilities of women and men – what males and females do, what they are responsible for, how they are expected to behave, what they are allowed to do, and what is seen as normal and proper behaviour in the community.
