The fundamental challenge for PNG in the next decade or more is that women are by far the majority of those denied their political rights. Two crucial components of a democratic system are a democratic state and a democratic civil society. The prevailing conditions in PNG do not allow such a system. The state is weak and the society is characterised by a great deal of turbulence. Without economic and social rights, political rights continue to be denied. This article looks at women’s attempts to enter national decisionmaking forums mainly through electoral contest, legislative reforms to increase women’s participation in decision making, and collective action by women. Despite their persistent losses in successive national elections since 1977, their struggle is relentless.