Find other means, avoid prostitution

PROSTITUTION is an issue inciting heated debate in Papua New Guinea however the work on decriminalising and legalising it had been stalled because of our varying cultural norms and Christian values.
Until it is legalised, prostitution remains illegal in PNG.
PNG has its values rooted on Christianity.
Arguably it was through the work of churches and missionaries that forged a multicultural and ethnic divided tribes into a unified nation.
Our way of life is constantly challenged by the ever-growing popular culture and secularism brought about by globalisation thus putting us in a precarious position.
Now it is incumbent upon us today’s generation to secure and preserve the Christian faith for us and our children.
On this juncture I thank the Government for taking a bold step to declare PNG a Christian nation by way of legislation.
The new legislation will become the cornerstone of Christianity in PNG and also serve as a reminder to any competing faith.
The bible tells us in numerous passages that prostitution is sinful, immoral, illegal, and very dangerous.
The Bible teaches us that our body is God’s temple and we should not defile our body in any way.
I feel for our people who are forced into prostitution by the financial hardships through tough economic times but there are other noble, dignifying and proper ways to make ends meet.
The government for instance in its coronavirus cconomic stimulus package is putting money into the banks and encouraging Papua New Guineans to help themselves in starting small to medium enterprises.
Through this arrangement, livelihoods can be better sustained through economically-viable and healthier means.
I call on the people engaged in prostitution to tap into the opportunities provided by the government.
The banks are keen to assist in self-help ventures such as sewing, trade store, poultry, and farming.
I am urging community-based organisations and faith-based organisations who are involved with the sex workers to assist them in acquiring financial assistance through the government’s credit facilities.
Commercial sex is illegal and isn’t helping when the media continuously splashing sex workers’ worries on the front page.
Maybe the papers have their reasons, kinky perhaps, but is encouraging sex workers to continue the practice and not looking elsewhere.

David Lepi