Papua New Guinea Ignited: Witch Burnings in the Western Highlands
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Issue Date
2015
Authors
Pfaff, Jennifer
Publisher
Monroe Community College
Keywords
Community colleges -- New York (State) -- Rochester -- Periodicals. , student publications
Abstract
Accounts and reports on the practice of witch burnings in contemporary Papua New Guinea society will be examined and analyzed. Research concerning these deadly witch hunts, particularly in Western Highlands of Papua New Guinea, show that not only women, as a traditionally targeted population, but also children are vulnerable of being accused of sorcery against their people. Such incidents occur not only in the remote tribal areas, but also in the populous towns and cities such as Mount Hagen. Mainstream media has generally overlooked these occurrences, but the public has a right to know that such atrocities are occurring in Papua New Guinea today. Witch burnings are sometimes done in the name of religious beliefs, but many times the burnings happen at the mere implication of practicing witchcraft done by others with ulterior motives, such as seeking personal gain or revenge. Bringing awareness of these tragic happenings can influence much needed change concerning these acts of violence and human right abuses.
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