No end in sight to PNG’s anti-gay laws

In Papua New Guinea, Peter O’Neill’s new government has been in power for just over a month, and is promising a host of reforms in the country.

PNG Prime Minister O'Neill. (File: AAP)

In Papua New Guinea, Peter O'Neill's new government has been in power for just over a month, and is promising a host of reforms in the country.

But one thing looks unlikely to change.

Homosexual acts have been illegal since British colonial times. Men caught in same-sex acts could face up to 14 years in prison.

Former MP Dame Carol Kidu says the laws are contributing to the country's HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Although the laws aren't strictly enforced, gay citizens say they face discrimination in their daily lives, and often struggle to find jobs.

But the push for decriminalisation has little support in the traditional Christian society.