Most refugees are West Papuans: Pato

 MINISTER for Foreign Affairs and Immigration Rimbink Pato says more than 90 per cent of refugees in the country are from West Papua.

“Under the National Refugee Policy, we have helped more than 1100 West Papuans to apply for PNG citizenship and will help thousands more in 2016,” Pato said.

“In comparison, only a few hundred non-Melanesian refugees are likely to settle in PNG.

“Many of them have skills that are needed by PNG businesses allowing them to stay and work and strengthen our nation’s economy and development.”

He thanked the people for their support in the national refugee policy.

“As Melanesians and Christians, we have strong traditions of helping people in need,” he said. 

“Refugees fled war, persecution and torture to be able to survive in peace and safety – the Govenment is happy to offer them this opportunity.

“The Government has held consultations and is conducting a campaign to explain to people the plight of refugees and why we are helping them.

“Refugees must work to support themselves. They will receive support to establish themselves but will not be given long-term housing or other special treatment.

“Some have already started working and are successfully and independently rebuilding their lives.”