Up until September of 1975 Papua New Guinea was owned by Australia. They gained their independence but still remain a part of the British Commonwealth. It is the largest nation among the Pacific Islands both in terms of population (5.3 million) and area. With all the other islands and coral reefs owned by PNG included it is about the size of California.

 
 
   Unlike California, PNG has about 815 indigenous languages represented. This linguistic diversity is due in part to the ruggedness of the terrain, natural barriers such as valleys and waterways, and a history of tribal warfare. There are 186 translation projects in progress in PNG right now. Another 46 languages have been identified as needing a Bible translation. The rest are still waiting to be investigated and surveyed or have been ruled out, for one reason or another.

 
 
    It is because of the great linguistic diversity that SIL is focusing so much attention and energy on PNG. The SIL center there is a major hub of activity with flights in and out every day, linguistic courses, translation checking, and the general welfare and maintenance of over 1,000 missionaries and their families that live in PNG. The harvest is great and the workers are growing! Praise the Lord!