Papua New Guinea’s NEFC joins global group of fiscal commissions
The National Economic and Fiscal Commission [NEFC] of Papua New Guinea is set to join an international group of fiscal commissions, marking a significant milestone in the country’s engagement with global governance and economic reform initiatives.
This new alliance comes through a strategic partnership with the Forum of Federations, a Canada based international organization committed to strengthening democratic and inclusive governance across federal, decentralized, and transitioning countries.
The announcement was made during a special meeting held on Friday, May 16, at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby, where Philip Gonzales, Director [Asia Pacific] of the Forum of Federations, confirmed the NEFC’s inclusion in the newly formed network.
“This group of fiscal commissions will work together to support independent, evidence-based decision making, particularly in addressing financial challenges such as fiscal policy reforms,” Gonzales said.
“Our aim is to empower institutions like NEFC through peer to peer learning and shared global experience.”
The Forum of Federations describes itself as a “think and do” organization bridging academic research and practical policy implementation. Its goal is to connect practitioners around the world, encouraging two-way knowledge exchange between nations facing similar challenges.
Gonzales emphasized that the Forum’s strength lies in connecting government practitioners worldwide, making it easier for developing economies like Papua New Guinea to access global expertise on decentralized governance.
“We don’t just offer theory we bring practical solutions through shared experiences. The value lies in learning from one another, whether you're from New Guinea, South Africa, or the MENA region,” he added.
The Forum also works in over 40 countries, having supported decentralization efforts in regions like the Middle East and North Africa, especially following the Arab Spring.
NEFC Chairman and CEO Patrick Kennedy Painap, who has championed this partnership since 2024, described it as a timely step forward.
“For over 25 years, NEFC has served as an independent advisor to the government of PNG. Joining this global platform allows us to enhance our expertise and contribute meaningfully to international discussions on intergovernmental finance,” Painap said.
He highlighted the key benefits of the partnership:
Access to a global network of fiscal and intergovernmental policy institutions,
Opportunities to learn from other countries’ experiences in fiscal governance,
Participation in international events hosted by the Forum.
A formal partnership framework between NEFC and the Forum of Federations is currently being finalized, setting the foundation for deeper collaboration and engagement in the years ahead.
As Papua New Guinea navigates ongoing economic reforms and governance challenges, the NEFC’s participation in this global initiative signals a new era of informed, collaborative policymaking.