Haniwai NGO Marks World Refugee Day by Honoring the Resilience of Displaced Communities, Especially Our West Papuan Brothers and Sisters
This year’s World Refugee Day was a powerful and heartfelt gathering in Port Moresby, where displaced women from Papua New Guinea and West Papua came together under the banner of the Action Network on Forced Displacement. Our Haniwai NGO team was honoured to support this vital commemoration.
The event was led by Indigenous activist and Humanity and Nature Indigenous Women’s Association founder, Maryanne Rimbao, who reminded everyone that World Refugee Day is not just a time to reflect—it’s also a call to action. “This day allows us to appreciate the strength of those who have survived forced displacement and stand together with our beautiful Melanesian people,” she stated.
West Papua refugee Olvianna Fonataba, who attended the gathering, spoke warmly of the sense of belonging and support that many refugees feel in Papua New Guinea. She expressed appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the event and acknowledged the ongoing commitment by PNG communities and the government to help displaced people rebuild their lives with dignity.
As an NGO dedicated to preserving the well-being and cultural resilience of Indigenous and displaced communities, we recognize the invaluable contributions of organizations like the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), UN Women, and international partners who continue to advocate for justice and equality for all refugees.
This World Refugee Day commemoration reminds us that solidarity, compassion, and respect transcend borders—and that together, we can help displaced people reclaim their voices and their futures.
Haniwai remains committed to standing with displaced communities every day of the year, championing their rights and aspirations for a safer and more dignified life.