Population growth

The National Letters

THE total population of Papua New Guinea is estimated at 8.3 million people, according to the latest census figures.
Looking back, in the year of 1960, PNG had a population of 2 million people.
The population trend presents challenges for all societies in the 21st century, including:

  • Low labour force participation, especially among young people;
  • Limited female empowerment;
  • Environmental degradation;
  • Food and water shortages;
  • Rapid urbanisation;
  • insufficient provision of housing, education and medical care;
  • Restrictive immigration policies;
  • Forced displacement; and
  • Failing states.

Good planning can reduce the cost of unforeseen investments in security and disaster relief for the inevitable crises ahead.
We can do something before things get vilest and a sad scenario palpable.

Newman Dinago