Less than 100 “regular” tourists travel to what might be the next nation on earth, the Republic of Bougainville, or as it might be known the Republic of the North Solomons.
Why though do so few people travel here and what is the situation for journalist travel to Bougainville?
To read about Republic of North Solomons click here.
Security situation in Papua New Guinea
The security situation in PNG is generally bad, but risks can quite easily be mitigated. Generally speaking though those doing journalism away from tourist areas should employ a security detail. This is particularly the case should you be carrying expensive equipment.
Port Moresby is point in case here and we will cover what security is needed here for journalists at another time.
To read why PNG is such a mess click here.
Security situation in Bougainville
Despite the affects of the War in Bougainville and that there was at some points more guns than people pretty much things are largely safe in Bougainville. In may respects it is not comparable to Port Moresby, nor “mainland” PNG safety wise.
That being said depending on what you plan to do here a security risk assessment should be done related to what you want to do in Bougainville.
Armed, or unarmed security, as well as policer escorts can be arranged in Bougainville.
To read about journalist travel to Papua New Guinea click here.
Journalist travel in Bougainville
Generally journalist travel for small pieces such as travel, or the like can be done very easily and without need for further arrangements. People doing light stories can do this easily and as part of a regular tourist group.
To check tours to PNG click here.
Those wishing to do stories on the war, the affects of the mine closure or things that are politically sensitive the technically you should seek permission from those in Port Moresby.
To read about safety in Port Moresby click here.
In reality what you need is connections on the ground in Bougainville, such as with local leaders and former people who participated in the war. These are all services that YPDR can arrange for you.
