James Stiefvater, Massey University

James’s research topic: Otonomi bilong wanem? Autonomy for what?: The interfaces of identity, development, and decentralisation in Papua New Guinea

“I have always been fascinated with how collective identities are formed and expressed. This opportunity allowed me to investigate the formation, importance, and expression of identities and policies in Papua New Guinea. Although I am not from Papua New Guinea, the country is close to my heart as my wife is from there and I have developed relationships and spent time there.

This research was wholly dependent on relationships and as such it was important to adopt an appropriate methodology. The use of tok stori as a research methodology is a fast-growing topic among researchers and practitioners working in places that speak Neo-Melanesian Creoles. In my family and area of work we speak Papua New Guinea Tok Pisin in the style of the New Guinea Islands. Tok stori allows for researchers to connect and build relationships with people by speaking the same language—an important aspect of relationality in PNG. My ability to speak the language and relationships with family and friends allowed me to learn from people in several unique places and ways. These opportunities often came in unexpected ways and times, including on the roadside, while travelling in a bus, and while sitting in the cooking house.

The timeframe of this work has been heavily affected by circumstances beyond the control of any one person. Delays from the combination of Covid-19 and bureaucratic obstacles in obtaining the necessary visa for research were frustrating at times, but the result opened opportunities that would not otherwise have been available. This included time spent participating in customary practices and ceremonies as well as chance meetings with individuals. Form this I have learned to trust the process and to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations while expecting the unexpected. I am grateful to DevNet for the financial assistance in this research. Unfortunately, life in Papua New Guinea is very expensive, and travel there even more so. This grant made my work much more affordable—something very important to me as I am funding this degree through personal funds and student loans. I am also grateful for the support and efforts of gracious supervisors: Glenn Banks, Gerard Prinsen, Lorena de la Torre Parra, and Alexander Mawyer.”

James Stiefvater, PhD Student in Development Studies, Massey University.