The Constitution of Papua New Guinea is both a document in legal theory -- stating the goals and basic premises of the society -- and a set of laws: the fundamental laws of the nation. It is a 'home grown' political and legal roadmap for the nation's development, underpinned by ideas of national self-respect, democracy and equality. This book contains the text of the Constitution of Papua New Guinea, annotated with the authors' comments and references to relevant reports and judgments. It is an essential reference book not only for lawyers, law students and judges but also for Members of Parliament and members of the State Services who, in the performance of their duties to the people, must be guided by the laws of the country.

Providing a description of the role and functions of the Constitution especially the National Goals and Directive Principles, this book contains detailed treatment of the various categories of the laws prescribed by the Constitution. In addition, the main institutions of the state are identified and discussed.

A collection of papers presented at a conference held in Papua New Guinea in March 1996, examining the operation of the PNG constitution in its first 20 years of operation.

This volume brings together a number of papers written by the author between 1971 and 2001 which address issues of political and economic development and social change in Papua New Guinea.