Papua New Guinea - Country Partnership Framework for FY26-31

Overview & Synopsis

The World Bank Group (WBG) Country Partnership Framework (CPF) sets out a new strategy to support Papua New Guinea’s(PNG) efforts to develop a resilient, diversified economy through private sector-led job creation and growth. Anchored in a One WBG approach, the CPF spans two International Development Association (IDA) cycles. It aligns with PNG’s Medium-Term Development Plan 2023–27 (MTDP IV) and supports its bold ambition of creating 1 million jobs by 2027. It also reflects PNG’s long-term vision as laid out in the Vision 2050, complemented by the PNG Reset@50 Roadmap, which articulates a reform agenda for stronger governance, accelerated human development, and inclusive growth. It covers the periods right before and after the 2027 national elections - a critical juncture given PNG’s history of electoral volatility and associated violence. This underscores the need for flexible, conflict-sensitive programming, and sustained engagement to safeguard progress during and after elections. This CPF focuses on four intertwined outcome areas: (i) improved human capital outcomes; (ii) more connected communities; (iii) improved economic governance; and (iv) increased private sector-led diversification. PNG is a WBG Gender Strategy fast-track country, with priorities on enhancing women’s access to jobs; strengthening GBV prevention and response; equalizing opportunities for women and girls in human capital; and strengthening women’s voice and leadership. Gender is integrated as a cross-cutting priority through the Country Gender Action Plan.