In brief
In Papua New Guinea, a disturbing increase in violence fueled by accusations of sorcery is being reported, as societal discontent and economic issues worsen. Cases like that of Korai, who narrowly escaped death after being accused of witchcraft, highlight the urgent need for intervention and education.
The men came wielding machetes, demanding retribution for a baby girl’s death. They accused a woman, Korai, of killing the infant through sorcery. Dragged from her home on the outskirts of Port Moresby, the assailants broke her hands and burned her skin with heated metal rods. Her life was spared only when her son alerted the authorities. “He saved my life,” Korai, 33, recounted, revealing the scars from her brutal ordeal. She insists: “I didn’t kill her. I don’t even know what a sorcerer is.”Tragic incidents like Korai’s have become increasingly prevalent in Papua New Guinea. While quantifying this rise can be challenging, anecdotal evidence suggests a worrying trend, fueled by a widespread belief that witchcraft is responsible for misfortunes. The backdrop of escalating violence is exacerbated by deepening societal issues, including a rich resource base contrasting with the limited economic opportunities for many citizens. This discrepancy has cultivated a culture of frustration and tension that manifests in such violent acts.As Papua New Guinea grapples with the repercussions of uneven economic development, it remains crucial to address the cultural beliefs that underlie these tragic events. Observers emphasize the urgent need for societal education and empowerment to dismantle the prevailing accusations of sorcery that lead to heinous acts, particularly against vulnerable women in rural communities.
