ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces Papua New Guinea as the case study for this book. The history of Papua New Guinea (PNG) is presented, with an emphasis on the actors, values, and interests that have shaped the nation. The chapter describes the nature of corrupt activity in PNG, and explores the key legal and institutional mechanisms in place to combat corruption. Challenges of resource and capacity limitations, external influence, and political will are noted in this context. Following this, PNG’s engagement with UNCAC and the global anti-corruption regime is explored, noting the limited engagement of PNG in the negation of UNCAC, and the apparent alignment of many domestic laws and policies with the UNCAC framework. The chapter concludes by suggesting that there is a disconnect between the domestic context and the global anti-corruption regime, in the context of PNG. It is possible that this disconnect may be a continuing challenge, as discursive compliance and practical action appear to be at odds.
