Unemployment in Papua New Guinea (PNG) can lead to significant consequences, including heightened poverty levels. When a considerable portion of the population struggles to find stable employment, families often face difficulties securing basic necessities, resulting in poorer living conditions and decreased access to essential services. This cycle can perpetuate economic hardship, where a lack of financial resources directly affects individuals' capacities to invest in education and health, further entrenching poverty within communities (World Bank, 2021).
Additionally, rising unemployment may drive emigration, as individuals seek opportunities in other countries to improve their living standards. Young people, in particular, may be inclined to leave PNG in search of better job prospects abroad. This trend could lead to a brain drain, where the country loses its skilled workforce, further exacerbating the economic challenges at home. Furthermore, prolonged unemployment can foster feelings of disenfranchisement and frustration among the populace, potentially resulting in social unrest and increased crime rates as individuals grapple with the lack of opportunities (Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, 2022).
References Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. (2022). Economic stability and its impact on PNG. Retrieved from [insert URL]
World Bank. (2021). Poverty and inequality in Papua New Guinea. Retrieved from [insert URL]