2024 Bel isi PNG Phase Two Update

Ms Mirriam Dogimab, Co-Facilitator of the consultative workshop for Bel isi PNG Stakeholders giving an overview of the workshop.

Bel isi PNG Inc. has commenced negotiations for Phase two funding with the Australian government through the PNG Women Lead (PNGWL) program. In September, a consultative workshop was conducted, with over 30 Stakeholder participants. The workshop objectives were to:

1.   Explore and confirm with referral pathway and other stakeholders the full set of recommendations from the Bel isi PNG Phase 1 Evaluation and how these have been addressed in the Phase 2 design of Bel isi PNG Inc

2.      Discuss and explore the core components of the full design for Phase 2 of Bel isi PNG Inc

3.      Gain a shared understanding of and identify emerging opportunities for collaboration and partnerships between the PNG Government, civil society, and private sector stakeholders across the next five-year strategy for Bel isi PNG Inc.

The workshop was opened by Mr. Jerry Ubase, Secretary of the Dept. for Community Development & Religion and was attended by representatives of the National GBV Secretariat and NCDC Family, Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Unit. Evonne Kennedy, Bel isi PNG Inc Board member and Executive Director of the Business Coalition for Women (BCFW), also welcomed participants on behalf of the Bel isi PNG Board.

Two important aspects that phase two will address include:

  • Communication with subscribers

Improving communication with subscribers by all partners was endorsed as a critical priority for this next phase.

All new subscribers receive a formal letter from Bel isi PNG Inc which includes advice on wat they can expect from their subscription.

Participants endorsed the recommendation to hold regular face to face meetings with subscribers twice a year (bi-ennially) and for the Bel isi PNG Secretariat, BCFW, and the Bel isi PNG CMC and Safe House to present a summary of key data at these events. The need for subscribers to receive good and deidentified and disaggregated data and information was confirmed as very important to the next phase.

  • Working with men

The challenges of focusing on the needs of men as survivors and as perpetrators was raised in many sessions during the day. This was seen as one of the big challenges and opportunities for private sector leaders to make an impact. Subscribers are very keen to be involved in these discussions and to be supported to consider how to work with men in the workplace and through developing new approaches.

Phase two negotiations are underway, with the proposal currently under review by the Bel isi PNG Board. Once approved by the Board, the proposal will be submitted to PNGWL for funding for a further 5 year funding from the Australian Government.

This newsletter will provide updates in the new year on the progress of the proposal.

Tovi Amona