Research and Monitoring the Development of the Underlying Law of Papua New Guinea

The Commission has a specific mandate under the Constitution, the Underlying Law Act 2000 and the CLRC Act 2004 to conduct research into and monitor the development of the Underlying Law of Papua New Guinea. The Commission carries out this constitutional mandate through four main avenues:

  • Recording and documentation of custom;

  • Mini Seminar series;

  • Bi-annual Underlying Law conferences; and,

  • Underlying Law case law monitoring.

The goal of this underlying law function is the develop the indigenous legal system of the country that truly reflects the ideals, values and philosophies of Papua New Guinea in keeping with the spirit of Goal 5 of the National Goals and Directive Principles on Papua New Guinean Ways and forms of legal, political and institutional organization.

Constitutional Directive Terms Of References Advisory and Draft Services Underlying Law Colonial Law Supreme Court References Library Services