Representatives from Papua New Guinea’s justice sector have strengthened their understanding of judicial ethics, integrity and equality through a two-day training workshop on the Bangalore Principles of Judicial Conduct, delivered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Centre for Judicial Excellence (PNGCJE).
Held from 10 to 11 August 2026 at the PNGCJE office in Port Moresby, the workshop brought together participants from the National Judicial Staff Services, Solicitor General’s Office, Magisterial Services and Judges’ Chambers to examine ethical standards, contemporary challenges facing the justice sector, and ways to strengthen public confidence in the administration of justice.
Opening the workshop, PNGCJE Deputy Executive Director Mr Nicholas Mirou highlighted the importance of upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism within the justice system.
“The Bangalore Principles remind us that independence, impartiality, integrity, propriety, equality, competence and diligence are fundamental values that must guide our conduct and decision-making,” Mr Mirou said. “This workshop provides an opportunity to refresh our understanding of these principles, examine contemporary ethical challenges and reinforce our collective commitment to maintaining public confidence in the administration of justice.”
The training included dedicated sessions on Equality in the Justice System and the Bangalore Principles, focusing on equality in court proceedings, court services and legal practice. Participants explored issues including discrimination, stereotypes, implicit bias, gender-responsive justice, respectful treatment of court users and survivors, and measures to address gender-related misconduct and accountability challenges.
Through presentations, practical case studies and interactive discussions, participants strengthened their ability to identify and respond to equality-related challenges in their professional roles and exchanged experiences on issues affecting the delivery of justice in Papua New Guinea.
Mr Mirou acknowledged the continued support of the European Union and UNDP in advancing judicial integrity and anti-corruption efforts in Papua New Guinea. He also thanked Dr Alma Sedlar, UNDP Chief Technical Adviser for Anti-Corruption, and welcomed Ms Emily Patterson, UNDP Consultant, for facilitating the training and sharing international expertise on judicial ethics, integrity and equality.
The workshop forms part of ongoing efforts by PNGCJE and UNDP under the European Union-funded Preventing and Countering Corruption in Papua New Guinea. The Project aims to strengthen ethical standards, promote equality and enhance public trust in justice institutions throughout the country. Building on previous training initiatives, the programme is also being expanded to provincial centres including Lae and Kokopo.
