Project Description:

This project provides initial PBSO surge support/ pre-Secretariat support to PNG. The aim is to help it to undertake a broad and a consultative peace and development analysis and a strategic Peacebuilding Priority Plan for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (ARB), following the Secretary-General’s declaration on PNG eligibility in May 2013. This support will ensure that PBF funding targets the critical peacebuilding needs.

The PBF support comes at a critical juncture moment: as Bougainville approaches the referendum on its future status. Yet the conditions could be improved to ensure a peaceful process, to address remaining grievances as well as to improve the relations between the national and the Bougainville Government. Moreover, with the national Government funding focused on infrastructure support, PBF funding will fill an important financing gap in the area of peacebuilding in ARB.