A recent incident in Papua New Guinea highlights the alarming trend of violence linked to sorcery accusations. In June, a group of men attacked a woman, blaming her for the death of a baby girl, whom they alleged was killed by black magic. The attackers severely injured the woman, who only survived due to her son's prompt alert to the police.
The woman, identified only as Korai for safety reasons, described the brutal attack, which left her with lasting scars and physical injuries. She denied any involvement in the child's death, expressing confusion over the beliefs surrounding sorcery.
Such cases are becoming increasingly common in Papua New Guinea, where belief in evil spirits and black magic remains prevalent. Researchers note a rise in these violent incidents, which are often fueled by societal changes, limited economic opportunities, and a backdrop of frustration and tension.
Experts, including Miranda Forsyth from the Australian National University, indicate that the violence has escalated, representing deeper societal issues. Disturbing images and videos of attacks have circulated, showing women subjected to extreme violence under accusations of witchcraft.
The issue of sorcery-related violence was brought to the attention of Pope Francis during his visit to Papua New Guinea in September. Sister Lorena, a nun, reported having saved over 200 individuals from such accusations, with some victims suffering severe injuries.
The geographic and cultural diversity of Papua New Guinea complicates the tracking of these cases, as many go unreported due to widespread beliefs in witchcraft. A study conducted by the Australian National University documented over 1,000 accusations from 2016 to 2020, with a significant number resulting in injury or death.
In instances of unexplained tragedies, individuals known as "glass men" are often called upon to identify alleged sorcerers through traditional methods, further perpetuating cycles of violence and retribution.
Despite advancements in communication and infrastructure, societal beliefs in sorcery persist. Experts assert that the breakdown of traditional governance and economic hardships have exacerbated the situation, leading to increased violence and tension within communities.
Religious leaders in the predominantly Christian country sometimes contribute to the perpetuation of these beliefs, although not all who believe in sorcery support violent retributions. Community members, like Carmel Piknisu, express hope that religious figures can help combat these harmful beliefs.
Efforts by the United Nations and local authorities to dispel myths surrounding witchcraft have met with limited success. While legal reforms have been made, including the criminalization of "glass men," prosecutions for such violence remain rare.
The spread of sorcery-related violence is not limited to remote areas; urban migration has brought these issues into cities like Port Moresby, where shelters are filled with victims of such accusations and their families, facing ongoing stigma.
Survivors, like Rose and Korai, express fears for their safety and that of their children, as the lasting impact of accusations can lead to social ostracism and violence. They voiced concerns about the inability to return to their homes and the perpetual stigma attached to their families.