This is a script from the History of Papua New Guinea Immigration and Development - an article based on recollection and experience of the writer.
Temporary settlers
The immigrating population in PNG may refer to foreign nationals looking to Australia and New Zealand as their destinations. The bureaucracy may not have allowed them to get into the intended countries. Many possibly have families and friends living there which makes it more attractive destinations from the outside.
They remained in PNG taking up job making PNG a temporary transit home. In hindsight, time is of the essence before they would steal the opportunity to make it to their Promised Land.
Refugees on Manus Island
The Manus Island Immigrants Detention Centre created by the Australian Government is an immigration burden to PNG. In fact, PNG would be happy for Australia to whatever it wants with them.
The detention adds to social development issues on the island. The immigrant children born to local women faced an uncertain future.
The big question going forward is what is going to happen to the immigrants on Manus Island? What about the children they are having with the local women on Manus?
Will Australia take responsibility of the children who are born to the immigrants on Manus as Australian citizens? They cannot be left stateless.
The social implications on the lives of the refugees and their children are the results of the policy decision by the Australian government.
The social implications on the lives of the refugees and their children are the results of the policy decision by the Australian government.
The boats were diverted to Manus. The question is when is it going to arrive at their destination.
Refocusing immigration on development
The recent immigration pattern is completely distorted. The temporary migrants and Manus Refugees do not have any bearing on the development of the country. Not long term benefits at all!
PNG history showed us that immigration and development worked well in the past when the intention is for developing the country.
Perhaps it is important PNG recognises immigration as a driver for development. Immigration patterns have been left unchecked for a long time. As a developing country, immigration must be for development.
The complete article attempts to show the positive impacts of immigration on development in the past. And compares it to present immigration patterns.
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