Decolonization is both a global and deeply personal process. It is movement to unshackle societies from the visible, invisible and insidious legacies of colonization. Globally, it reflects the dismantling of systems that perpetuate inequality, exploitation and cultural erasure. For Papua New Guinea (PNG), it represents a step in the journey towards reclaiming cultural identity, redefining development and reaffirming sovereignty over ancestral lands and natural resources. Decolonization is about restoring a sense of self and community while charting a future rooted in Melanesian values.
My hope is to illustrate the formidable structure of cultural domination and, specifically for formerly colonized peoples, the dangers and temptations of employing this structure upon themselves or upon others.
Edward Said, Orientalism (1994 [1979]:74)
Colonialism left an indelible mark on PNG. It severed traditional ties to land, disrupted cultural narratives and; imposed economic and governance systems that were designed for external benefit. Today, these colonial constructs persist in new forms. Disguised in policies, legal framework and various sectors of society, it influences development, societal norms and individual perceptions. Decolonization requires more than addressing historical injustices, it demands a reawakening of the wisdom that sustained Melanesian societies for generations.
Project Sepik took on the role as a catalyst in this movement. In 2024, the Organization convened two training sessions- one in East Sepik Province (ESP), Chambri Lakes and another, for the East Sepik Students Union at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG). Project Sepik then engaged experts from various civic sectors to review the Chambri training and refine a decolonization strategy.
Understanding Decolonization in Context
Decolonization is a process of awareness and liberation by freeing societies from visible, invisible, and insidious chains imposed by colonial powers. In PNG, this involves critically examining entrenched systems, structures and narratives that influence identity, societal norms, laws, politics and development.
Central to this process is the relationship between development and identity. For PNG, land is inseparable from identity, thus development is an appendix of the conversation. Discussions illuminated cultural perceptions of natural element such as land, trees, rivers and oceans. For instance, Papua New Guineans see these elements as home- a food bowl sustaining life, spirituality and community. Surpluses are shared by everyone. This home cultivates connectedness. Outsiders, however, tend to see everything as a resource to be owned, sold and hoarded for wealth accumulation.
Decolonization is both a global and deeply personal process
Colonial systems disrupted this connections by introducing reductive thinking and practices. For example, Melanesians see a river as family, as clansperson, a source of food, transport assistant and a home to flora and fauna. Colonialists, however, see a river as a resource with a price tag. This perception towards the natural world is both fragmented and exploitative.
Colonialists see large trees as logs which must be sold. They, clear large areas for agriculture and use chemicals to kill plants and insects/animals. They dig up the earth for minerals, destroying everything in their path. They cut up land boundaries and place laws on how to use these areas and then proceeded to own these lands. To them, none of what Melanesians call home is connected. The activities of the colonialists during the colonial period were shocking to Papua New Guineans. However, at that time, Papua New Guineans did not know what rights they had nor did they understand the colonial reductionist’s fragmented thinking and practice.
Today the lands acquired during the colonial era are in the hands of the government or corporations. The basics of laissez-faire economic model implemented through aggressive capitalism continue today to alienate the peoplemore from their ancestral lands. Project Sepik’s opposition to the Frieda Mine highlights the importance of protecting these land as an extension of identity and sovereignty. The efforts put into empowering communities to recognized their rights to their home, their land, their wealth, understanding development and determining the appropriate development on their own terms is crucial for decolonization. The courage to question and resist disinformation, misinformation and unethical dictation by foreign corporations and corrupt Governments, honors this relationship and lays the foundation for true sovereignty.
Inclusivity as a Foundation
A central theme was the need for inclusivity in the decolonization process. Given PNG’s diverse linguistic and cultural landscape, decolonization experts stressed the importance of designing strategies that resonate with regional realities.
The communal ethos of PNG culture is essential in this context. Traditional Melanesian societies value consensus and emphasizes collective over individual well-being. Decolonization efforts must build on this foundation by fostering community-driven solutions that prioritize local perspectives and needs. Inclusivity ensures that decolonization is both comprehensive and deeply connected to the lived experiences of all Papua New Guineans. This approach not only addresses inequities caused by colonial systems but also strengthens a national identity that celebrates unity in diversity.
Cultural Resilience and the Power of Narratives
Stories of resilience highlighted the strength and ingenuity of indigenous communities. Examples of traditional knowledge systems and leadership excellence challenged colonial narratives which often diminished or erased these contributions. Participants reflected on how colonization disrupted the transmission of cultural knowledge and emphasized the need to revive these traditions.
Education, storytelling and cultural practices can preserve and promote the stories, heroes and values that define Melanesian identity. Discussions also emphasized the connection between cultural resilience and land. Land, as a living narrative of heritage, holds generational stories. Protecting it, is as much about preserving identity as it is about ensuring livelihoods. Redefining and properly using these narratives allows communities to reshape progress and development on their terms.
Strategic Approaches to Decolonization
Project Sepik’s strategic approach through efforts in decolonization is grounded in practical, actionable steps that aim to dismantle colonial legacies, which have been hijacked by Government and Corporations to convince the people to remain suppressed and thus be exploited. The people can only build a future for themselves when they realize all their land, their wealth, their innovative ability and define a change they choose that generates wealth and redistributes wealth for them to thrive. The following initiatives were developed through Project Sepik’s trainings and community engagement efforts:
- Education and Curriculum Development: Creating resources that integrate indigenous knowledge and decolonization principles into PNG’s education systems.
- Community Engagement: Empowering communities through workshops and training to strengthen grassroots advocacy.
- Political Representation: Encouraging participation in governance to align decisions with cultural values and priorities.
- Cultural Revitalization: Promoting traditional practices and languages to foster a strong sense of identity.
- Environmental Stewardship: Strengthening the protection of ancestral lands as a cornerstone of identity and development.
These strategies aim to dismantle visible, invisible, and insidious remnants and newer forms of colonial influence while fostering a future rooted in self-reliance and Melanesia pride.
Reflecting on the Path Forward
Decolonization is not about returning to the past but about reimagining an inclusive future. It involves blending traditional wisdom with modern advancements, ensuring that progress aligns with indigenous values rather than external standards.
This journey requires collaboration, critical thinking, and a commitment to continuous dialogue. As individuals and communities take ownership of their identities and narratives, they contribute to building a Papua New Guinea that is self-determined, resilient and proud of its heritage.
Decolonization is ultimately an act of reclamation and empowerment. By challenging colonial legacies and embracing cultural authenticity, Papua New Guineans are not only reclaiming their past but also shaping a future that honors their unique place in the world.
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