Confronting Sorcery Accusation Related Violence
Uniting Churches for Change.
Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV) is a significant issue in Papua New Guinea, causing great harm to communities and individuals. The belief in sorcery or witchcraft is widespread in both rural and urban areas, posing a serious threat. Churches play a crucial role in addressing SARV, but there is a need for increased cooperation and action. The Melanesian Institute (MI) is calling for all churches to work together to tackle this urgent issue.
SARV has a profound impact, especially on vulnerable groups such as children and people with disabilities. The cycle of violence and fear perpetuates inter-generational trauma, highlighting the need for the church to provide spiritual guidance, practical assistance, and protection to those affected. Additionally, SARV contributes to displacement, forcing survivors to seek safety elsewhere.
The government must step up efforts to improve essential services and support survivors. Education and awareness campaigns are crucial in addressing the root causes of SARV and should be integrated into the national curriculum.
Churches have the potential to significantly change the SARV response, but this potential remains largely untapped. Clarity and a firm stance against SARV are crucial, especially when lives are at stake. As churches work to combat SARV, they must also hold the government accountable for ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.
SARV is a crime against humanity that demands a collective response. Churches, as agents of positive change, have the responsibility to use their influence to protect human rights and promote justice for all. It is time for churches to realize their full potential in combating SARV, without room for ambiguity or indifference.
Policy paper: “Why SARV matters for PNG Churches”
Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV) is destroying many lives in our communities today. The Melanesian Institute is taking a step forward in working with the churches to eradicate this issue in our communities.
To be re-sourced from MI’s own files — the original was a private Google Drive embed and is no longer publicly accessible. See MISSING_PDFS.md in the backup folder.
Sanguma in Paradise
The Melanesian Institute has carried out research on Sorcery Accusation Related Violence since 1985. Since then, we have produced many publications on the subject of SARV. The first publication we have summarised is ‘Sanguma in Paradise’, which was (in 2009) the product of a five-year research program on sorcery, witchcraft and Christianity in Papua New Guinea.
To be re-sourced from MI’s own files — the original was a private Google Drive embed and is no longer publicly accessible. See MISSING_PDFS.md in the backup folder.
Church-Run Health Centers Prepared to Tackle SARV Emergencies
A recent study by the Melanesian Institute reveals that church-run health centers in Papua New Guinea are well-prepared to handle emergency cases of Sorcery Accusation-Related Violence (SARV). These centers provide essential medical treatment and counseling, ensuring timely and comprehensive care for survivors. The study highlights the collaborative efforts in Enga and Chimbu provinces and calls for greater recognition and documentation of SARV cases to inform policy-making. Despite challenges, church healthcare workers remain dedicated to offering compassionate care and support to SARV survivors.
To be re-sourced from MI’s own files — the original was a private Google Drive embed and is no longer publicly accessible. See MISSING_PDFS.md in the backup folder.
Sorcery Accusation-Related Violence and Health
Sorcery Accusation-Related Violence (SARV) is a critical issue in Papua New Guinea, causing significant harm to communities. Churches play a vital role in addressing SARV, but increased cooperation and action are needed. The Melanesian Institute (MI) calls for unified efforts from all churches to tackle this urgent issue. MI’s new research paper highlights the role of healthcare in managing SARV, emphasizing the need for better collaboration, workforce development, and tailored responses to support SARV survivors.
To be re-sourced from MI’s own files — the original was a private Google Drive embed and is no longer publicly accessible. See MISSING_PDFS.md in the backup folder.