PNG Law Society Rejoins LAWASIA, Port Moresby to Host 2026 Conference

On October 14, 2025, the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Law Society officially rejoined the Law Association for Asia and the Pacific (LAWASIA), marking a significant milestone for the country's legal community. The reinstatement was confirmed after PNG Law Society President Hubert Namani addressed the LAWASIA Council Meeting in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Mr. Namani emphasized that this move reaffirms Papua New Guinea's commitment to justice, the rule of law, and collaboration with regional legal bodies. He stated, "Our re-admission to LAWASIA opens new pathways for PNG lawyers to engage in international legal dialogue, access high-level professional development, and contribute to critical regional discussions affecting the rule of law and fundamental rights."

In addition to rejoining LAWASIA, Port Moresby has been selected to host the LAWASIA Environmental Law Conference in 2026. This conference is expected to attract top international legal experts, judges, academics, and policymakers to discuss environmental governance, climate justice, and indigenous land rights—topics increasingly relevant for Papua New Guinea.

The PNG Law Society highlighted that hosting the conference will showcase the country's growing influence in regional legal leadership and its unique perspectives on environmental law and sustainable development. With its reinstated membership, PNG lawyers will now have access to LAWASIA's conferences, workshops, and forums, creating new opportunities for professional growth, research, and advocacy on human rights and legal reform.

The Society described this achievement as "a proud and defining moment" and looks forward to welcoming regional counterparts to Port Moresby in 2026.