PNG Leader Tells UN Religious Majorities Must Respect Minorities

PNG Prime Minister James Marape has used his address to the United Nations to call for stronger protection of religious minorities, saying no majority should rely on its numbers or influence to deny others their fundamental freedoms.

Addressing world leaders at the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, Mr Marape said freedom of conscience, thought and religion must remain universal rights rather than protections applied selectively to certain groups.

 PNG Leader Tells UN Religious Majorities Must Respect Minorities/Photo supplied

He said the protection of vulnerable communities should remain at the centre of human rights and warned against using state authority or religious dominance to restrict individual freedoms.

“The strength of a nation, a government, an economy, a technology or a religion should never be used to suppress the fundamental rights of another human being,” he said.

Mr Marape referred to Papua New Guinea's Constitution, particularly Section 45, as a safeguard that protects freedom of religion and prevents people from being forced to participate in religious observance.

While acknowledging PNG's predominantly Christian character, he said genuine religious belief could not be created through legislation or coercion.

“Faith that is forced is no longer faith,” the Prime Minister said.

He called on countries where Christianity, Islam, Hinduism or Buddhism form the majority to assess whether minorities are protected from discrimination, whether through government policies or broader social practices.

Mr Marape said respect for human rights should not depend on whether people share the same religious convictions.

“You do not have to believe what I believe in order for me to defend your human rights,” PM Marape added.