PNG Law Society rejoins LAWASIA, Port Moresby to host 2026 conference

Papua New Guinea’s legal community achieved a major milestone as the PNG Law Society officially rejoined the Law Association for Asia and the Pacific [LAWASIA], restoring the country’s voice on the regional legal stage.

The re-instatement was confirmed after PNG Law Society President Hubert Namani addressed the LAWASIA Council Meeting in Hanoi, Vietnam, over the weekend.

Mr Namani said the move reaffirms Papua New Guinea’s ongoing commitment to justice, the rule of law, and collaboration with regional legal bodies.

“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,” Mr. Namani said in a statement.

In another exciting development, Port Moresby has been selected to host the LAWASIA Environmental Law Conference in 2026, which is expected to attract top international legal experts, judges, academics, and policymakers.

The event will focus on environmental governance, climate justice, and indigenous land rights, which are areas that are increasingly relevant for Papua New Guinea.

The PNG Law Society says the conference will highlight the country’s growing influence in regional legal leadership and showcase its unique perspectives on environmental law and sustainable development.

With its reinstated membership, PNG lawyers will now gain 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.