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24 September 2021
Food Systems Summit '21 Statement by H.E. Francisco Guterres Lu-Olo, President of Timor-Leste
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24 September 2021
UN Secretary-General's remarks at the Food Systems Summit
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22 September 2021
Secretary General Antonio Guterres Address to the General Assembly
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Timor-Leste
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Timor-Leste:
Story
20 September 2021
The future of work and the ‘new normal’
United Nations Resident Coordinator in Timor-Leste, Roy Trivedy, shares his reflections about the impacts of COVID-19 and its ‘new normal’ on the workforce, work conditions, and labour markets. This has huge implications for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
The UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Liu Zhenmin, often says that ‘future of work is in fact the future of the world’, I recalled this when last week I participated in a rich, fascinating and insightful webinar organised by UNDESA and UNDP that brought together colleagues from the UN family including ILO and others to discuss the Future of Work.
The meeting explored many of the ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic has affected work in different countries and sectors of economies worldwide. We heard about how millions of workers are experiencing increased levels of job insecurity, as many businesses have folded, resulting from the disruption of markets and other factors. We learnt about how the ‘gig economy’ has grown and now forms an important part of peoples’ livelihoods, especially those working in certain service industries. We heard how for some, this has created new opportunities to work (and often more flexibly), while for others, it has impacted their abilities to enjoy ‘decent work’, stability and effective protection in the workplace. Participants noted that unlike a few decades ago, it is now becoming rare for individuals to work for one company or corporation throughout their working lives. Most people change jobs frequently and the ability to adapt and flexibly apply one’s skills has become a necessary part of the ‘new normal’.
A salient feature of the ‘new normal’ has been the way in which workplaces worldwide have embraced and encouraged ‘remote working’. This has resulted in some benefits for workers (e.g., reducing commuting time, allowing people to have more flexibility about when they work and in some places, opened new work opportunities outside of major cities etc.). But it has also exposed considerable challenges (including increased levels of ‘workplace isolation’, mental stress and difficulties in protecting workers rights). Participants noted how in some places, the pandemic has affected people working in care professions and accentuated the importance of effective social protection policies. For some of the most vulnerable groups of people, including those who are unemployed, ‘unskilled workers’, those with long-term illnesses, people working in informal sectors, the elderly and people with disabilities, the changing nature of work often accentuates and deepens inequalities and vulnerabilities. Participants also stressed how digital skills have become an integral requirement in many types of jobs. We discussed how automation and AI (artificial intelligence) is impacting on different sectors, including by offering ‘labour saving’ opportunities in certain industries/sectors (eg some manufacturing industries) but also displacing certain types of traditional jobs and industries, including in farming and seasonal agricultural work.
The webinar also focused on the impacts of the climate crisis and environmental sustainability on working patterns. Participants noted many immediate impacts, as well as emerging and potential changes that will become even more evident in future for businesses, employers and employees as the world strives to move towards greater carbon neutrality.
The presenters stressed that the impacts of the above changes are not uniformly affecting industries, sectors, economies, countries and individuals. Different changes are taking place depending on different contexts and the impacts are different for different groups of people (men/women, those working in the formal sector, those working informally, professionals, casual workers etc..).
One lesson from the discussion was the need for government’s, political leaders, the UN and others to do more to prioritise and find effective ways of strengthening the skills base, flexibility and adaptability in workforces. Improving digital skills and investing more resources now to strengthen the abilities of people is crucial for preparing the future workforce. This needs to start with early childhood development and must ensure that all children have the best start in their lives. Countries like Timor-Leste, must use the post-pandemic period to improve nutritional standards to support better learning, boost the quality of education, strengthen numeracy and literacy skills, invest more in vocational training, digitalisation and skills development now. We have to prepare young people for the types of future employment opportunities that will emerge over the next decade and beyond. We must use every opportunity now to significantly boost investment in these areas.
A second lesson that was emphasised was the need for governments and others to improve social protection measures. The pandemic has increased inequalities worldwide. There are many studies that show that improvements in social protection generate positive results in terms of economic growth. One of the recent ones is INVESTMENTS IN SOCIAL PROTECTION AND THEIR IMPACTS ON ECONOMIC GROWTH commissioned by InTouch Credit Union (ITUC).
The ITUC report based on research from 8 countries in four continents shows:
Investments in social protection positively affect employment opportunities. An investment of 1 per cent of GDP in social protection has a positive effect on rising employment, with a multiplier effect between 0.1 and 1.1 in the eight case studies. In most cases, the employment gains are greatest for women – which underlines the positive role that social protection can play in reducing gender inequalities in the labour market.
The analysis also shows that social protection investments increase the overall employment supply. Indeed, the existing evidence shows that social protection plays an important part in helping otherwise liquidity-constrained households to cope with adverse shocks. Households are better able to smooth consumption and thus rely less on negative coping strategies, such as the sale of assets and the withdrawal of children from school. This means that households may, for example, engage in more risks in terms of innovation and invest more in human capital, facilitating longer job search activities.
The simulations indicate that social protection investments induce an increase of labour demand, especially in labour-intensive economies and typically in the economies where agriculture is the most important sector and where domestic sectors are more interlinked. Total tax revenues increase with investments in social protection. The analysis shows that by investing in social protection, fiscal revenues increase, making social protection funding less dependent on external sources. Investment of 1 per cent of GDP in social protection has a positive effect on total government tax revenues: between 0.6 per cent and 3.5 per cent in the eight case studies.
There is therefore strong evidence for governments and others to work together to boost social protection. As the world recovers from the pandemic, we must grasp opportunities to strengthen social protection measures.
A third key lesson that I drew from our discussions was for all of us (governments, private sector, institutions and individuals) to find effective ways of reducing, re-using, recovering and recycling products. For many of us, changing consumption and production patterns is an essential and vital part of contributing to more sustainable lifestyles – a change that can improve the future for all. Let’s not miss the opportunity to make the necessary changes now!
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Story
03 November 2020
From where I stand: “I’m hoping that things will get better so I can have my job back.”
"Starting from this month, I won’t go to work. My family and I are sad that I can’t earn money anymore to help the family and pay for my nephews and nieces’ education.
After high school graduation in 2011, I wanted to pursue a university degree, but then I realized that I could never afford it. So I decided to work and sustain myself and my family.
During the past year, I’ve been working as a domestic worker in a household in the capital, Dili, and live with my employer. I got the job through the non-governmental organization Working Women’s Centre Timor-Leste (WWCTL), which supports employment opportunities, training and advocacy for domestic workers.
Now with the State of Emergency, I’ve been asked to take a one-month break to go back to my family as part of COVID-19 prevention efforts. The WWCTL manager had a discussion with my employer, and I was informed just one night before that I would have to return to my village the next morning.
I was told that I could return to work on April 27, when the State of Emergency is over. However, with more positive COVID-19 cases registered, it is not certain if I’ll be allowed to go back by the determined time. I’ll just wait for the call, and I’m hoping that things will get better so I can have my job back. Otherwise, I’ll stay at home to help my family look after our kiosk to earn some money.
Being home with my sisters and the kids has been fun, but it’s hard to make money at this time. People who work in offices continue to work from home and earn their salary regularly, but domestic workers cannot. I wish we could have a salary during emergency times, because we work many hours and on the weekends too.
Some of my domestic worker colleagues are still working. Only five of us have been asked to take a one-month break due to COVID-19. My friend and I helped our three friends with transport back to their homes because unlike us, they didn’t receive their salaries when they were asked to stop in the middle of the month. I wish all employers could treat their employees equally."
Ana Paula Soares was born to a family with limited income in Ermera, a municipality in central Timor-Leste. Her parents and her eldest sister have died. She now is staying in her village in Ermera with her two other sisters and their families while waiting to be called back to work. UN Women, under its Women’s Economic Empowerment Programme, collaborates with the Working Women’s Centre Timor-Leste to help domestic workers affected by the COVID-19 crisis. This work promotes United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5, on Gender Equality, and Goal 8, on Decent Work and Economic Growth.
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Story
03 November 2020
UN Women's Camille Wauters: We see how positive these changes have been for the whole society
Camille Wauters has been with UN Women since 2008. She started working in Niger as a UN Volunteer for UN Women as Economic Empowerment Officer and then continued working in Palestine. She has been working at the Timor-Leste Country Office since 2014, where she managed the Gender Mainstreaming programme and later the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) programme. Let’s hear more about her work with UN Women Timor-Leste:
What are your reflections over the past 5 years on changes in gender equality and WPS in Timor-Leste?
Many changes are happening. Because the country was born struggling for independence, which was linked to human rights and gender equality, the country is very vibrant and one of the few I have seen that is advancing very strongly on gender equality. Of course, it has its ups and downs. Because there are strong women’s advocacy groups, a lot of advances have been made, especially on the legal side. There is a quota for women in parliament, but also at the village level. There is strong advocacy for more women in the security sector, which has led to the National Action Plan on WPS, approved in 2016. This has really brought a change within the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Interior, where there are currently three women and three men who are Director Generals, involved in very high-level decision-making.
What do you think makes UN Women a unique organization?
You’re with a group of people that are really committed to their work, who really believe that change can happen and that we are there to make it happen. Working for UN Women, you work with government partners at a very high-level of decision-making, so you are able to work alongside your colleagues to bring change within the country on a macro level through policy changes and laws. We see how positive these changes have been for the whole society.
What have you enjoyed most about working with UNW in Timor-Leste?
Working with the team and with our colleagues and partners. I have enjoyed learning from partners, seeing how committed and professional they are and seeing the changes we can make. For example, within the Ministry of Interior, working with the National Directorate of Community Conflict Prevention, there is a strong partnership with UN Women. Our strong mutual trust leads us to developing something quite unique as we are working on strengthening and institutionalizing a gender-responsive approach to mediation. This new approach will leave more space for women to speak up on community conflict prevention and resolution. I believe this is going to bring about profound change in Timor-Leste, where women are traditionally not allowed to speak out in community conflict resolution practices. I have also learned a lot from the women and men I have been working with, especially at the municipal level. Because a lot of work is focused at the national level with our institutions, when you start working at the municipal level, it’s incredible to see how committed they are and how they are bringing change in their communities with very few means.
What are your aspirations for gender equality advocates in Timor-Leste?
To continue the work. I think as Timor-Leste has such a long history of working on advocacy and fighting unjust causes, there are some very strong advocates for gender equality – both women and men – who I know will take it forward. I hope we will hear more voices from the municipal level. There have been a lot of gains at the national level, especially in parliament and governance, where women have made significant strides. However, more support is needed at the municipal level, and that’s where the next big decisions are going to be taken, especially as there is a decentralization process that is going to happen in Timor-Leste. We need to support them, and I think this type of work is really important.
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14 April 2021
10,000 displaced families seek refuge in evacuation centers as floods destroy homes in Timor-Leste
Humanitarian workers continued rescue missions to remote locations in Timor-Leste using excavators and cranes, as death toll from recent flash floods reached 46, and many still reported missing by local authorities.
Families relied on the generosity of their neighbours to seek temporary shelter in the few houses left standing after the devastating floods and landslides. An estimated 10,000 people were left homeless.
Impassable roads and power blackouts engulfed the country hindering relief efforts in the island nation.
Anna Dosantos Lucia, a 39-year-old mother of seven from Lemonara in Dili, currently hosted at Balide Catholic Church parish hall -- one of the 19 evacuation centers set-up by the Government of Timor-Leste, had to wait for three days before she received support from local authorities.
Since April 4, the roads to the mountainous Lemonara area -- usually about 25 minutes drive from the capital’s central business location -- was unreachable and had the main bridge in the area broken.
The Government of Timor-Leste through the Secretariat of State for Civil Protection together with other ministries is leading humanitarian response to the affected people supported by UN agencies and development partners.
Roy Trivedy, UN Resident Coordinator in Timor-Leste reiterated UN agencies and partners continued support to the people and Government of Timor-Leste as the country recovers from the floods amidst COVID-19 pandemic and travel restrictions.
The coordinated efforts will aid in the identification and overall management of the evacuation facilities, evacuation and transportation of vulnerable groups, and provision of essential services like health services through the Ministry of Health.
“I have never seen such destructive floods in my life. I have lost my items and money. I have received help from neigbours who have hosted me and my family for the last three nights,” says Anna Dos Santos.
Before her evacuation, Anna was living with her husband -- a cleaner in Dili. She was forced to leave him behind with her four older children currently under their care, as evacuation was prioritized for those with the greatest need.
“My first priority is to rebuid our house. My husband is trying to rescue some of our belongings. I would like to request support to repair our house and pay for school fees for our children.
“I have two children in college, one in senior highschool and the other in junior highschool still in our care.
“It is hard for me to say when I will leave this place since I don’t have a house. If I leave this place, I will still go back to my neighbours,” explained Anna.
If Amandina Santina Lopes Guteres, a 32-year-old mother of two, had her say, she would prefer to go back to her home village in Bacau municipality rather than stay at the center – curently hosting about 150 internally displaced persons (IDPs) including women and children.
“I have no option but to hope that there will be no more rains. The kitchen area of my house is totally destroyed and most of the house will need major repairs before I can move in. It is currently not safe.
“I fear that it will be totally destroyed if the rains continue,” added Amandina.
A recent study conducted by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Population Funds (UNFPA) and other UN agencies on Social-Economic Impact Assessment (SEIA) of COVID-19 in Timor-Leste recommends the need for intergrated policies and responses that coordinate between crisis response, health, gender equality among other aspects.
The floods in Timor-Leste has worsened the livelihoods of many families still struggling with challenges of COVID-19 pandemic.
“We hope that the Government can remember us as we try to restore our lives,” Imaculada Daconceicao, a 28-year-old mother of three expectantly said.
“The Government need to repair our roads and rebuild the bridge in Lemorana. We do not have clean water and also the community need Government support at the moment. Some of us are also sick and need medical supplies,” said Amandina.
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and UN agencies was among the first responders to support families at the evacuation centers in Timor-Leste -- donating hygiene and sanitary items like sanitary napkins in one set known as “Dignity Kits” to meet basic hygiene needs.
UNFPA has also facilitated the trasportation of midwives from health centres to evacuation centers -- providing critical services to pregnant women and new mothers.
“We are sincerely suddened by the devastation caused by the floods to families and deeply extend our condolences to the families and Government of Timor-Leste for the lives lost.
“We remain committed to working with the Government of Timor-Leste and our partners to prevent gender-based violence in emergencies and provide support to survivors.
“We are particularly concerned about health of vulnerable groups like pregnant mothers and we are currently availing mobile maternity clinics to help save lives of mothers and babies especially in emergency situations and provide dignity kits to meet their basic needs,” said Dr Domingas Bernardo, UNFPA Assistant Country Representative in Timor-Leste.
For more information contact:
Suleiman Okoth
Communications and Programme Support Specialist
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Timor-Leste UN House, Caicoli Street
Dili, Timor-Leste Mobile: +670 75169796
WhatsApp: +254 780534026 Email; okoth@unfpa.org
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Timor-Leste UN House, Caicoli Street
Dili, Timor-Leste Mobile: +670 75169796
WhatsApp: +254 780534026 Email; okoth@unfpa.org
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Speech
17 June 2021
UN RESIDENT COORDINATOR ROY TRIVEDY AT LAUNCHING CEREMONY OF TIMOR-LESTE FINANCIAL INCLUSION REPORT 2020
[As delivered]
Governor Abraao De Vasconselos, staff of the BCTL and all Distinguished guests thank you
for inviting me to join in the launch of the Timor-Leste Financial Inclusion Report 2020 and for allowing me to make a few remarks this morning.
I would like to start by Congratulating the Central Bank of Timor-Leste and all the partners who have been involved in preparing this publication. This third Financial Inclusion Report shows the strong progress that has been made in Timor-Leste over the past two years. The Report contains updated information about the supply of financial services in the country and summarizes the results of the ‘demand’ for financial services from different groups of people in the country.
The Report brings together in one place a lot of vital information about financial services in the country – what has been achieved and areas where further progress is required. I want to convey my appreciation and thanks to everyone involved in putting together this very informative and elegant report.
I would like to focus my remarks on the progress that has been achieved and areas where I think it may be useful for us to dig deeper to make further and faster progress on financial inclusion in Timor-Leste. However before coming to that, I would like to share with you a bit about my personal interest in financial inclusion and my experience of why it matters.
My family emigrated to the UK from Kenya when I was around 10 years old. My father was a trained accountant and worked as a Company Secretary. My mother was aged around 40 years when we moved from Kenya. Before we arrived in the UK my mother had always worked at home as a ‘housewife’ she spoke very little English and had missed most of her schooling (because of early marriage).
When we moved to the UK, my family could not live easily on just my father’s salary and so my mother had for the first time in her life find formal employment. At that time in the late 1960s and early 1970s it was possible to find ‘low skilled’ jobs in factories where we lived. My mother therefore started working in a local factory. Initially for the first 5 years, each Friday my mother used to handover her week’s earning to my father (who would manage the family’s finance) and in return my father would give some of the cash back to my mother so that she could purchase food and other items that the family needed. After several years of this, it soon became apparent to all of us that despite my father and mother’s earnings, the family was not able to build up any significant savings. It was at that time that my brother and I (both in our teens) persuaded my mother to open a Building Society account. Initially, my father was very displeased about why my mother had opened a separate account – he argued very strongly for continuing the practice of having just one bank account for the family (that he controlled). But with the support of her children my mother kept the account and rather than handing over all her weekly wage to my father, started saving part of her earnings. Many years later, my father was the first to admit that my mother had done the right thing. She managed to save thousands of pounds and used her savings to support the family… This experience helped change my family’s economic situation and that experience of opening a bank account (or Building Society account) was instrumental in shaping my commitment to the issue of financial services. That is why I am a passionate supporter of financial services. I believe they can not only support the development of individuals and families but also contribute to the development of nations!
So what does this Report tell us? Firstly it makes the point that understanding market dynamics and client needs is essential for financial inclusion. People won’t use digital services if they do not understand those services or the services are too expensive.
Different groups of people have different needs. Women and young people have different financial needs to men and retired people, so will require different financial products. Those living here in Dili will have different needs in turn to those living in rural areas. So financial service products need to be adapted to respond to the very specific needs of clients in the country.
Without a nuanced understanding of the demand for financial services, it’s difficult to create the right savings, credit, insurance or payment products that meet people’s needs and help them improve their lives or grow their businesses, and achieve their goals.
So one of the values of this Report is that it helps government and other service providers gain a better understanding of the needs of Timorese people with regard to financial services and products. The Report provides vital information on access, usage and quality of the financial services and products currently available.
The Report highlights several important facts that can now be used by stakeholders to plan their future actions in accelerating financial inclusion in the country such as:
The significant improvements on access points: increased coverage in Sucos, and for the first time, all Administrative Posts (states) are covered by at least one type of financial service access point;
The impressive growth of e-wallet services with more than 3,000 agents and 86,000 registered clients in 2020;
The modernization of the National Payments System: interoperability of ATMs and connect e-wallet services to banks, allowing clients to transfer money from bank accounts through their e-wallet accounts;
The moderate increase in usage of bank services;
The implementation by Timorese Government and the BCTL of a Credit Moratorium Program in 2019 to support the economy and in particular businesses and households affected by the COVID-19 outbreak.
The launch by BCTL of “Digital Village” awareness campaign to promote digital financial services among Timorese in rural and urban areas.
Additionally, the Report makes good use of data gathered during as part of the first ever demand side survey in the country, conducted by BCTL with support from The Asia Foundation.
The Report makes clear that there are many positive things here for us all to build on. The global experience shows that good financial services are essential for the development of economies and can contribute to the wellbeing of families regardless of where people live or which sectors of the economy they work in.
The Report also makes a very important point about the need to improve financial literacy in Timor-Leste. Despite the fact that about 64% of Timorese adults, overwhelmingly salaried employees, own an account with a formal financial institution (banks, ODTIs). Due to lack of awareness and knowledge a large proportion of Timorese are unable to access formal financial services that meet their needs and provide them means to create sustainable livelihoods opportunities, making better choices, taking better decisions in investment, food security, health outcomes and other aspects of their daily life.
The Report shows that more efforts are needed to focus on digital and financial literacy and customer awareness in terms of products, services, and eligibility criteria to improve access to formal financial services. This suggests that there is scope for service providers to step up their financial literacy programmes and focus on customer education, making it an integral part of their outreach strategies. But its also points to BCTL’s role as an initiator and coordinator of digital and financial literacy programmes in the country to ensure an effective and efficient approach.
Ultimately, the promotion of financial inclusion is a collective responsibility. Government plays an important role in regard to creating a favourable enabling environment; the private sector plays an important role through technological innovation and tailored business models; development partners have a role in emphasizing the importance of access to finance through their engagements; and civil society plays a role by providing support, knowledge and oversight.
I hope this report will bring together these various stakeholders in accelerating access to financial services in Timor-Leste.
The UN family, and particularly dedicated agencies such as UNCDF, stand ready to work together with the Government and Central Bank of Timor-Leste, and indeed all partners to help achieve BCTL’s financial inclusion vision “To create an inclusive financial system that brings the benefits of financial services to all, including unbanked people and communities, towards the objectives of reducing poverty and enhancing shared prosperity”, and help achieve the country’s SDGs objectives.
Thank you
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21 September 2021
Clean water flows to school in rural Timor-Leste for the first time in ten years
is helping bring water to rural schools in Timor-Leste and helping keep students safe from COVID-19
Eskola Basic Filial or EBF Zona Golgota-Baucau school has 211 students, 99 girls and 112 boys. It sits on a plateau, offering stunning views of the beaches and crystal-clear waters of the ocean in Baucau Municipality, east of the capital Dili. However, for close to a decade since it opened, the school had difficulties accessing water.
Students and teachers had to use the lunch break to walk to a communal water pipeline a kilometre away, and then carry heavy buckets of water along the rocky paths back to the school. The water was used for handwashing, cleaning of the school, and even to stop the dust from blowing around during the dry season.
“It is a tough choice, as staff, children and I used almost the entire break to fetch water instead of giving children time to play. But there was no choice, as water was critical to help with handwashing, sanitation, and cleanliness, and keep children safe from disease,” says Ana Floriana dos Santos Marques, the Principal of EBF Zona Golgota school.
A small-grant scheme called ‘Fundu Ki’ik’ (Small Grant), launched in March 2021 by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, with funding from the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) and support from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is helping at least 240 schools in the 12 municipalities and special Region of Oecussi enclave improve access to clean water and help them protect children against COVID-19 and other diseases like diarrhoea.
“The lack of clean water results in children falling ill and missing out on studies, and has a big impact on girls’ education when they skip classes owing to the lack of adequate facilities for menstrual hygiene management.” says H.E. Dr. António Guterres, Vice Minister of Education Youth and Sport. “This scheme will help make schools safer and provide the facilities needed in schools, and enable children to continue learning during the pandemic.”
Under the scheme, selected schools are provided a maximum of USD 1,000 each to help them improve access to water, sanitation and hygiene facilities and promote a safe and secure environment for learning, including preventing the spread of COVID-19 and other diseases. To date, 74 schools have benefitted from the scheme in all municipalities.
“For the first time in a decade, our school has running water and students can now have more time to play, instead of having to go and fetch water for their basic needs,” adds Principal dos Santos Marques. “Teachers also have more time to prepare lessons and support students.”
Initially, people thought that it would require highly sophisticated equipment and support from engineers to install the plumbing works. However, a team effort by parents, school staff and community members has helped ensure the school now has clean running water. They purchased plumbing materials, dug a channel to divert water, installed and connected the pipeline to the main water source, the water tank and handwashing and other facilities.
“The spirit of volunteerism, participation and collaboration among parents has helped make the school safer, and make our community stronger,” says Mr Francisco da Costa, one of the community members.
“I am extremely happy we have water, and more importantly, can use the break to play, catch up with friends, and not have to worry about having to get water for use in the school,” says Ines Ximenes, a 12 years old child at the school.
“Thanks to the Global Partnership for Education and UNICEF initiative, we can now be happy that schools such as these that did not have direct access to water can now be safer learning environments for children,” says Apolinário Serpa Rosa, Director General for Basic Education, Pre-school, and Recurrent Education.
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16 September 2021
Expert’s Take: “Advocating for women and girls’ right to education start within our homes and communities, stretching to decision-makers.”
an education of good quality appropriate to their individual abilities and should gain the necessary knowledge, capacity and skills – suitable vocation – to support themselves and their families and to participate in all areas of national development,” and the National Education Strategic Plan (2011) affirmed the commitment to achieving an inclusive education to “expand and improve comprehensive early care and education, specially for the most vulnerable and disadvantaged children,” however, figures and the education system in the country beg to differ. There are many barriers blocking us from fully achieving an inclusive education system, particularly infrastructure settings and learning materials suitable for different learners.
In total 10 Ministries and Secretaries of State have developed a National Action Plan for people with disability but there remains a lack of full commitment for implementing the plans, despite the former president of parliament Arão Noé Amaral stating that “government has the obligation to protect persons with disabilities and not to exclude them from development plans and programmes.
There is the perception that only the Ministry of Social Solidarity and Inclusion is responsible for people with disability matters, when in fact, it impacts all aspects of societal development.
As a woman with disability, I am grateful to be able to access education; the issue of women and girls with disabilities being disproportionally left out of school prompted me to embark on the journey to fight for their inclusion and access to education.
Previously I worked with two local organizations for people with disabilities. First with Ra’es Hadomi Timor Oan (RHTO) for three years, where through our advocacy on the accessibility of people with disability in their communities, we managed to build houses and toilet facilities at schools that are people with disability-friendly at municipality level. Aside from this, we worked closely with teachers to promote equal access to education for people with disability by connecting them to institutions that were to provide school equipment and also guide them to access and apply for available scholarships.
Expert’s Take: "Halo advokasia ba feto no labarik-feto sira-nia direitu ba edukasaun hahú iha ita-nia uma-laran no komunidade nia leet, no haburas ba ukun-nain sira."
Timor-Leste nia Polítika Nasionál ba Edukasaun Inkluziva (2011) iha objetivu katak nasaun nia populasaun hotu-hotu "tenke simu edukasaun ho igualdade, ho kualidade di'ak ne'ebé apropriadu ba sira-nia abilidade individuál no tenke hetan koñesimentu, kapasidade no abilidade – vokasional apropiradu - atu apoia sira-nia aan no sira-nia família no partisipa iha área hotu-hotu ba dezenvolvimentu nasionál nian," no mós iha Planu Estratéjiku Nasionál ba Edukasaun (2011) afirma sira-nia kompromisu atu alkansa edukasaun inkluzivu liuhosi "habelar no hadi'ak kompreensivu kuidadu nian sedu no edukasaun, liuliu ba labarik sira ne'ebé vulneravel liu no sira ne'ebé desfavoresidu liu," maibé, figura no sistema edukasaun iha rai-laran hatudu diferensa. Iha bareira barak ne'ebé impede ita husi alkansa sistema edukasaun ne’ebé totalmente inkluzivu, liuliu aspetu infraestrutura no materiál aprendizajen sira ne'ebé adekuadu ba alunu oin-oin.
Iha totál Ministériu no Sekretáriu Estadu 10 ne’ebé dezenvolve ona Planu Asaun Nasionál ida ba ema ho defisiénsia sira maibé seidauk iha kompromisu tomak atu implementa planu sira ne'e, maske eis-Prezidente Parlamentu Nasionál Arão Noe Amaral hateten ona katak "Governu iha obrigasaun atu proteje ema ho defisiénsia sira no labele esklui sira hosi planu no programa dezenvolvimentu sira.”
Iha persepsaun katak só Ministériu Solidariedade Sosiál no Inkluzaun deit mak responsavel ba ema ho defisiénsia sira, maibé loloos ne’e, asuntu ida-ne'e fó impaktu ba aspetu dezenvolvimentu sosiál hotu-hotu nian.
Nu'udar feto ho defisiénsia, hau agradese tebes tanba bele hetan asesu ba edukasaun; kestaun kona-ba feto no labarik-feto ho defisiénsia sira, ne'ebé husik hela eskola, impede hau atu tuir luta ba sira-nia inkluzaun no asesu ba edukasaun.
Uluk hau servisu ho organizasaun lokál rua ba ema ho defisiénsia sira. Ba dahuluk ho Ra’es Hadomi Timor Oan (RHTO) durante tinan tolu, iha ne'ebé liuhosi ami-nia advokasia kona-ba asesibilidade ba ema ho defisiénsia iha sira-nia komunidade, ami konsege harii uma no fasilidade sentina iha eskola ne'ebé mak sensivel ba ema ho defisiénsia iha nivel munisípiu. Aleinde ne'e, ami servisu hamutuk ho profesór sira atu promove asesu igual ba edukasaun ba ema ho defisiénsia sira hodi liga sira ba instituisaun sira ne'ebé mak atu fornese ekipamentu eskola nian no mós orienta sira atu hetan asesu no aplika ba bolsa estudu ne'ebé mak iha.
Hafoin ida-ne'e, hau servisu hamutuk tinan lima ho Asosiasaun Defisientes Timor-Leste (ADTL), sombriña ba organizasaun ema ho defisiénsia sira iha Timor-Leste. Hau involve iha advokasia no inisiativa hasa’e kapasitasaun barak atu ajuda ema ho defisiénsia sira asesu ba oportunidade sira iha sosiedade, ne'ebé inklui hasa'e partisipasaun feto no labarik-feto sira ho defisiénsia iha área edukasaun. Ami dezenvolve programa ho naran “Klase Ekuivalente” iha tinan 2019, ne'ebé ho objetivu atu fó oportunidade ba ema adultu sira ho defisiénsia ne'ebé nunka rejista iha eskola atu asesu ba edukasaun, liuliu halo advokasia ba feto ho defisiénsia sira hodi partisipa.
Importante ba ita atu foti asaun forte hodi asegura feto no labarik-feto sira ho defisiénsia iha asesu barak liutan ba edukasaun tanba bainhira sira hetan eskluisaun barak liu, ida-ne'e sai susar liu atu halai-sai husi kiak no susar atu hakbiit sira. Ida ne'e bele hahú husi ita-nia uma laran no komunidade nia leet, no haburas ba ukun-na'in sira.
Liuhosi diálogu importante ho inan-aman no membru komunidade sira kona-ba asuntu ida-ne'e, ita bele kria imajen diak liu ba feto ho defisiénsia sira, iha ne'ebé sosiedade simu sira no respeita sira.
Ikus liu, entidade governu hotu-hotu tenke sai na'in ba asuntu ne'ebé ema ho defisiénsia sira hasoru, liuliu feto no labarik-feto sira ho defisiénsia tanba sira iha risku ba diskriminasaun bo’ot liu. Investe no hadi'ak edukasaun inkluzivu laos deit hadi'ak númeru feto no labarik-feto sira ne'ebé ho defisiénsia iha edukasaun, maibé profesór sira mos sei treinadu no alunu sira sei sosializa atu respeita ema ho defisiénsia sira, ita sei hahú elimina bareira sira ne'ebé haketak ita nia unidade.
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Story
06 August 2021
SG's message on the International Day of the World's Indigenous People
THE SECRETARY-GENERAL MESSAGE ON THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE WORLD’S INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
9 August 2021
Indigenous peoples around the world continue to face overwhelming marginalization, discrimination and exclusion. Rooted in colonialism and patriarchy, these profound disparities are sustained by a deeply held resistance to recognizing and respecting the rights, dignity, and freedoms of indigenous peoples.
Throughout modern history, indigenous peoples have been robbed of their lands and territories, of their political and economic autonomy, and even of their own children. Their cultures and languages have been denigrated and extinguished.
In recent months, the world has again been exposed to just some of the horror faced by indigenous communities at the hands of colonizers. Some nations have begun to address this heinous legacy through apologies, truth and reconciliation efforts, and legislative and constitutional reforms. But much more needs to be done.
We need a new social contract – one that restores and honours the rights, dignity and freedoms of those who have been deprived of so much for so long. Central to this must be genuine dialogue, interaction and willingness to listen. We already have the tools we need to this, including the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the outcome document of the World Conference on Indigenous Peoples.
There is no excuse for denying the world’s 476 million indigenous peoples self-determination and meaningful participation in all decision-making. Free, prior and informed consent is central for indigenous peoples to exercise their own vision of development.
And while recognition of the importance of indigenous knowledge grows, in particular in solving the climate and biodiversity crises and preventing the emergence of contagious diseases, we must ensure that indigenous knowledge is owned and shared by indigenous communities themselves.
The United Nations system has a key role to play. On this International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, let us show true solidarity by working to end the grievous inequalities of indigenous peoples worldwide, to fully recognize the abuse they have endured, and to celebrate their knowledge and wisdom.
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20 July 2021
‘Timor-Leste has taken remarkable strides in positioning itself as a staunch defender of human rights.’ Roy Trivedy
United Nations Resident Coordinator in Timor-Leste pays tributes to Ms Carmel Budiardjo and recalls when he first met her in the ‘90s. Carmel epitomised the value of upholding and protecting human rights.
Last week the Government approved a vote of condolences for the sad recent passing of Ms Carmel Budiardjo, who in 2009 was awarded the Order of Timor-Leste insignia. Carmel was a tireless human rights activist who I first met in the 1990s when I was working as the International Officer for the UK Labour Party. At that time, Carmel and the TAPOL team were campaigning and advocating for greater international support for Timor-Leste’s struggle to re-gain independence. Carmel is a great example of the vital contribution that human rights defenders around the world make to societies, sometimes even sacrificing their own lives while advocating for human rights, peace and justice – to contribute to building a better world for all.
Carmel’s legacy and that of other human rights defenders has helped Timor-Leste to establish itself as a champion of human rights in Asia. This strong commitment to protecting Human Rights has also positioned the country well to soon apply for membership of the Human Rights Council of the United Nations and hopefully, to perform well in many areas of human rights when it undergoes its third Universal Periodic Review at the same Council early next year. Recently however, some human rights defenders in Timor-Leste providing practical legal support to alleged victims of sexual and gender-based violence have reported being targeted by intimidation and death threats. Some Non-Government Organisations (NGOs), delivering support services to victims of abuse have also been criticised and accused of committing illegal and immoral acts. Journalists covering news about the alleged crimes have faced accusations of biased reporting. In this context, we have also witnessed a divisive and politicised public debate, characterised by attempts to discredit and blame victims of sexual and gender-based violence, including minors. These incidents are distressing.
As a young nation, Timor-Leste has taken remarkable strides in building its democratic institutions and promoting the rule of law. Despite many challenges, Timor-Leste now has a well-established judicial system based on continued efforts to strengthen capacity, progressively becoming more accessible for all citizens and making significant strides to increasing professionalism. In Timor-Leste, journalists, human rights defenders continue to enjoy freedom to express their opinions and to conduct peaceful activities. Domestic violence, including sexual abuse, has been recognised as a public crime and efforts are on-going to improve relevant institutional and policy frameworks aimed at accelerating the elimination of violence and discrimination against women and girls and promoting gender equality.
It is vital that these achievements are not derailed. Now is the time for Timor-Leste to show that it is ready to stand by the principles and obligations that it has committed to when it ratified many of the core human rights treaties shortly after the restoration of independence in 2002. Timor-Leste must demonstrate that its institutions are up to the challenge of promoting and protecting the rights of all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable, regardless of who is the alleged perpetrator and his or her power or influence. As Article 7 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states, “all are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protection of the law.”
In a world where gender-based violence is recognised as one of the most pervasive and widespread human rights abuses, all efforts must be made to demonstrate that these types of crimes will not be tolerated and that any abuses will be properly investigated and appropriate actions taken by the law against perpetrators. Judicial authorities must also be able to take decisions independently and impartially, without undue interference or delays. At the same time, victims of gender-based violence deserve respect and support. They must be entitled to seek justice and be protected by the State.
Importantly, let us also acknowledge the work of all human rights defenders, including that of Ms Carmel Budiardjo, who tirelessly contributed to championing the rights of all. Each one of us has the responsibility to preserve this legacy. They also deserve our respect and support and should never be the subject of reprisals or attacks of any kind.
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16 July 2021
The Decade of Action and Small Island Developing States: Measuring and addressing SIDS’ vulnerabilities to accelerate SDG progress
UN Timor-Leste Resident Coordinator Roy Trivedy participated in a discussion organised by the United Nations Resident Coordinators for the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) under the coordination of Prof. Jeffrey Sachs for the purpose to look at the multidimensional vulnerability index (MVI), measure and address SIDS’ vulnerabilities to accelerate SDG progress.
Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face a unique set of vulnerabilities that impede their ability to achieve sustainable development. Structural factors, including their size, remoteness, limited resource base, market size, exposure to climate risks and natural disasters, impact socio-economic outcomes and their ability to achieve the SDGs.
Roy Trivedy noted it was particularly worth listening to the remarks by Professor Jeff Sachs at the beginning of the discussion that how his points are relevant for Timor-Leste. “Prof Sachs makes the point that for most countries to achieve the SDGs it is vital that they have access to concessional financing. But there is a crisis in development finance. Richer countries are able to borrow money at very low rates of interest whilst many poorer countries especially debt distressed countries are struggling to borrow additional finance at concessional rates. We need to ensure that through the OECD DAC and IFIs the richer countries make it more possible for poorer countries to borrow at zero or near zero interest rates to be able to recover post-pandemic and support early recovery”, Mr Trivedy elaborated.
“Prof Sachs further explains that the MVI looks at three specific structural features of SIDS: (i) they generally have small not very diversified economies (the exception is Singapore), reliant on producing a few commodities, with high dependence on tourism and remittances and have difficulties to cope with economic shocks; (ii) Most of the SIDS are remote and off the beaten track with poor transport connectivity; (iii) they are particularly vulnerable to natural disasters and climate shocks. The IMF have recently calculated that most SIDS need to increase investment in infrastructure by between 6-10% post pandemic to meet the extra costs associated with their vulnerabilities.”
Mr Trivedy also noted, “Prof Sachs states that on a per capita basis SIDS have hardly contributed anything historically to global warming but they are disproportionately affected by the impact of the climate crisis. At the Paris Meeting, richer countries refused to accept responsibility for losses and damages suffered by poorer nations as a result of climate change by the SIDS and other poorer countries. The G20 meeting in Bali in 2022 will provide a good venue to further this discussion and see whether there is really an appetite for redesigning the criteria for allocating development finance.”
Please find below weblinks to two relevant and valuable resources for further reading:
Measuring and Addressing SIDS’ Vulnerabilities to accelerate SDG progress
https://resources.unsdsn.org/the-decade-of-action-and-small-island-developing-states
The Rich World’s Debt to the Island States By Prof Geoffrey Sachs
https://www.project-syndicate.org/commentary/climate-threat-to-small-island-developing-states-by-jeffrey-d-sachs-and-isabella-massa-2021-07?referral=c50051
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Press Release
18 June 2021
In Timor-Leste, over 268,000 women and girls benefitted from EU-UN Spotlight Initiative in one year
DILI, 18 June 2021: The Government of Timor-Leste, European Union (EU), United Nations (UN), civil society organisations, and partners of the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative met today to review progress, approve the 2020 Annual Report, and seek inputs on programmatic adaptations needed to address the increased risk of violence against women and girls in the wake of recovery from COVID-19 pandemic and floods. The third meeting of the National Steering Committee was virtually organised by the Secretariat of State for Equality and Inclusion and the UN Resident Coordinator's Office. The meeting brought together representatives from the line Ministries, Municipalities, EU, UN agencies together with their partner organisations, and civil society.
The Spotlight Initiative started in January 2020, and has substantially contributed to preventing and responding to violence against women and girls. Over 268,000 women and girls, or 21% of the total population, have benefitted from the programme over the last year. Over 550,000 people were also reached through social media.
“I would like to convey my sincere appreciation to all the efforts you all have carried out. While all of us have face various challenges due to limited movement because of by COVID-19, sanitary health fence and the recent floods, however we have made significant progress as seen in the results presented earlier. We have welcome positive feedback not only from the secretariat in New York but also from regional level. This is a great recognition to all and I believe together with UN and European Union, we will improve implementation performance in the coming period,” stated Secretary of State for Equality and Inclusion, Maria José da Fonseca Monteiro de Jesus.
As a result of community mobilisation, advocacy, system strengthening, and improved awareness, Gender Based Violence (GBV) reporting and response has increased considerably. The Spotlight partners supported over 3,500 women and girls in municipalities of focus who reported physical/sexual violence and sought legal help. More than 1,319 cases of GBV were also reported to justice officials – almost twice the number of cases compared to the previous year in these municipalities. In addition, 60 women and girl survivors of violence and their families were supported by the Spotlight Initiative through knowledge, information, and capacity building. Through behavioural change interventions, the programme also engaged and advocated with men and boys to become stronger agents of change.
In 2020, the Spotlight Initiative worked with the Government partners, including PNTL, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, Trade Union Confederation, Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Associação Empresarial das Mulheres, and Secretariat of State for Vocational Training to support women and girls against all forms of violence. Over 800 Public Sector representatives were trained. Partnerships were also developed with organisations working with marginalised groups, particularly people from the LGBT community and people with disabilities, to improve their access to services.
In Timor-Leste, the Initiative is being implemented by five UN agencies (ILO, UNDP, UNFPA, UNICEF, and UN Women) in collaboration with civil society and the Government partners. The programme currently supports 22 civil society projects representing 33 partner organisations at the national level and three municipalities (Viqueque, Bobonaro, and Ermera). Over USD 2.48 million have been committed to these projects. The Spotlight Initiative also supports key Government partners through technical and financial support.
The European Union Ambassador to Timor-leste said: “I am proud of the work done by the Government, the UN Agencies and the Civil Society Organisation during this first year of implementation of the Spotlight Initiative. Despite the difficult Covid19 times, many women, girls, boys, men and minority groups of society have been reached with information, training and services. GBV has not been eliminated yet, but the path has been set and the European Union continues to be strongly committed to support gender equality and women's empowerment. I know, it would be impossible to achieve this without the engagement and commitment of the Timor-Leste Government and Civil Society Organisations.”
It has been globally recognised that violence is often exacerbated in emergencies and natural disasters due to disruption of services, destruction of infrastructure, displacement, and limited access to referral services.
Despite the shutdowns and restrictions in response to COVID-19 and recent floods, action against GBV remains one of the highest priorities for the Government, United Nations, EU and partners in Timor-Leste.
"Women and girls in Timor-Leste are under greater risk of violence during COVID-19 pandemic and as a result of the floods, making them more vulnerable. The Government and key institutions have a responsibility to help ensure that people are safe, well supported and that the fundamental rights of all, especially women, girls and vulnerable groups, are effectively protected. The UN in Timor-Leste will continue working closely with the communities, the Government, and partners to address and eliminate all kinds of violence against women and girls", noted United Nations Resident Coordinator Roy Trivedy.
In response to the floods and in support of COVID-19 recovery, the Spotlight team and partners also proposed diverting some programme funds to ensure the safety of women and girls. The meeting explored redirecting over USD 500,000 from the Initiative's budget to Gender and Protection measures under Government and humanitarian partners' Joint Flood Response Plan. The proposed reprogrammed funds cover referral systems, reproductive health services and supplies, dignity kits, and psychosocial support to affected women, girls and their families.
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Komunikadu imprensa konjuntu.
Iha Timor-Leste, iha 268,000 feto no labarik-feto sira hetan benefísiu husi inisiativa Spotlight UE nian iha tinan ida nia laran, konklui ona Komisaun diretiva Nasionál.
Governu, parseiru sira, Uniaun Europeia, no Nasoins Unidas kompromete atu hapara violénsia kontra feto no labarik-feto sira liuhusi revizaun ba progresu no haree ba aselera implementasaun inisiativa Spotlight iha ámbitu rekuperasaun Covid-19 no inundasaun sira foin daudaun ne'e.
Dili,18 Junho 2021: Governu Timor-Leste, Uniaun Europeia (UE), Nasoins Unidas, organizasaun sosiedade sivíl, no parseiru sira husi inisiativa Spotlight ne'e hala'o sorumutuk ohin hodi halo revizaun ba progresu, aprova relatóriu anuál tinan 2020 nian, no buka input sira kona-ba adaptasaun programátiku sira ne'ebé presiza hodi hatán ba risku violénsia ne'ebé aumenta hasoru feto no labarik-feto sira iha momentu rekuperasaun husi pandemia Covid-19 no inundasaun. Sorumutuk datoluk Komisaun Pilotajen Nasionál nian ne'e kuaze organiza husi Sekretaria Estadu ba Igualdade no Inkluzaun no husi Koordenador Rezidente Nasoins Unidas nian. Sorumutuk ne'e halibur reprezentante sira husi Ministériu, munisípiu, Uniaun Europeia, ajénsia ONU sira hamutuk ho sira-nia parseiru organizasaun sira, no sosiedade sivíl.
Inisiativa Spotlight ne'e hahú iha fulan-janeiru tinan 2020, no substansial kontribui ona ba prevensaun no hatán ba violénsia hasoru feto no labarik-feto sira. Liu 268,000 feto no labarik-feto sira, ka 21% hosi totál populasaun, hetan benefísiu hosi programa ne'e iha tinan kotuk. Iha mós ema na'in 550,000 liu husi média sosiál.
“Ha’u hakarak hato’o ha’u nia sinseru apresiasaun ba esforsu hotu ne’ebé ita-boot sira halo ona. Maski, ita hotu hasoru dezafiu barbarak tanba limitasaun movimentu kauza hosi COVID-19, Serka Sanitária no inundasaun foin lalais ne’e, maibé ita konsege halo progresu ne’ebé signifikante tebes hanesan rezultadu ne’ebé ita haree iha aprezentasaun ohin. Ita hetan respota pozitivu la’ós hosi sekretariadu iha Nova Iorke de’it maibé mós hosi nivel rejionál nian. Ida-ne’e rekoñesimentu ida di’ak tebes no ha’u fiar katak hamutuk ho ONU no Uniaun Europeia, ita sei hadi’ak di’ak liután implementasaun programa iha periódu tuir mai,” dehan Sekretária Estadu ba Igualdade no Inkluzaun, Maria José da Fonseca Monteiro de Jesus.
Nu'udar rezultadu husi mobilizasaun komunidade, advokasia, hametin sistema, no hadi'a konsiénsia, violénsia bazeia ba jéneru (vbj) relata no responde aumenta maka'as ona. Parseiru sira Spotlight nian suporta ona feto no labarik-feto sira liu na'in 3,500 iha munisípiu foku sira ne'ebé relata violénsia fíziku / seksuál no buka tulun legal. Kazu liu 1,319 husi gbv mós relata ba ofisiál Justisa sira - kuaze númeru kazu dala rua kompara ho tinan kotuk iha munisípiu sira ne'e. Nune'e mós, sobrevivente feto na'in 60 no feto violénsia nian no sira nia família hetan apoiu husi inisiativa Spotlight liu husi koñesimentu, informasaun, no kapasitasaun. Liu husi intervensaun mudansa hahalok sira, programa ne'e mós involve no halo advokasia ho mane no labarik mane sira atu sai agente ba mudansa.
Iha tinan 2020, inisiativa Spotlight ne'e serbisu hamutuk ho parseiru Governu nian sira, inklui PNTL, Ministériu Edukasaun, Ministériu saúde, Konfederasaun Sindikatu, Kámara Komérsiu no Indústria sira, associariariariaria empresarial das Mulheres, no Sekretaria Estadu formasaun profisionál atu apoia feto no labarik-feto sira hasoru forma violénsia hotu-hotu. Reprezentante sektor públiku liu 800 mak hetan ona treinamentu. Parseria sira-ne'e mós dezenvolve ona ho organizasaun sira ne'ebé serbisu ho grupu marjinalizadu sira, liuliu ema LGBT sira, komunidade no ema ho defisiénsia sira, atu hadi'a sira-nia asesu ba servisu sira.
Iha Timor-Leste, inisiativa ne'e implementa hosi ajénsia ONU na'in lima (ILO, UNDP, UNFPA, UNICEF, no UN Women) ho kolaborasaun ho sosiedade sivíl no parseiru Governu nian sira. Programa ne'e daudaun ne'e apoia projetu sosiedade sivíl hamutuk 22 ne'ebé reprezenta organizasaun parseiru 33 iha nivel Nasionál no munisípiu tolu (Viqueque, Bobonaro, no Ermera). Liu USD 2.48 milloens kompromete ona ba projetu hirak ne'e. Inisiativa Spotlight ne'e mós apoia parseiru xave Governu nian sira liuhusi apoiu tékniku no finanseiru.
Embaixador Uniaun Europeia nian ba Timor-Leste dehan: "ha'u orgullu ho servisu ne'ebé Governu hala'o ona, ajénsia ONU nian sira no organizasaun sosiedade sivíl nian durante tinan dahuluk iha implementasaun inisiativa Spotlight nian. Apezarde tempu Covid19 ne'ebé difisil, ular-oan barak, labarik-feto, labarik-mane, mane no grupu minoria sira sosiedade nian hetan ona informasaun, treinamentu no servisu sira. VBJ seidauk elimina, maibé dalan ne'ebé estabelese ona no Uniaun Europeia kontinua komprometidu maka'as atu suporta Igualdade jéneru no empoderamentu feto. Ha'u hatene, imposivel atu realiza ida ne'e sein kompromisu no kompromisu hosi Governu Timor-Leste no organizasaun sosiedade sivíl sira. "
Globalmente rekoñese katak violénsia dala barak akontese iha situasaun emerjénsia no dezastres naturais tanba fó perturbasaun ba servisus, destruisaun ba Infra-Estruturas, dezlokamentu, no limitasaun asesu ba servisus referénsia.
Maske restrisaun no restrisaun sira ne'ebé taka ona hodi hatán ba Covid-19 no inundasaun sira foin daudaun ne'e, asaun hasoru VBJ sei sai nafatin hanesan prioridade aas ida ba Governu, Nasoins Unidas, UE no parseiru sira iha Timor-Leste.
"Feto no labarik-feto sira iha Timor-Leste iha risku boot liu ba violénsia durante pandemia Covid-19 no nu'udar rezultadu husi inundasaun sira, halo sira sai vulneravel liutan. Governu no instituisaun xave sira iha responsabilidade atu ajuda asegura katak ema sira ne'e seguru, hetan apoiu di'ak no katak direitu fundamentál hotu-hotu nian, liuliu feto, labarik-feto no grupu vulneravel sira, hetan protesaun efetivu. ONU iha Timor-Leste sei kontinua servisu hamutuk nafatin ho komunidade sira, Governu, no parseiru sira atu rezolve no elimina violénsia oi-oin hotu hasoru feto no labarik-feto sira," hateten Koordenador Rezidente Nasoins Unidas nian Roy Trivedy.
Hatán ba inundasaun sira no iha apoiu ba rekuperasaun Covid-19 nian, ekipa Spotlight no parseiru sira proposta ona mós atu halo diverisaun ba programa fundus balu hodi garante seguransa ba feto no labarik-feto sira. Enkontru ne'e explora fila fali osan dolar amerikanu 500,000 husi orsamentu inisiativa ne'e nian ba medida sira protesaun jéneru no protesaun nian iha Governu nia okos no parseiru umanitária sira nia planu resposta konjunta ba inundasaun. Reprograma nebee propoin ona hodi kobre sistema referénsia fundus, servisu no fornesimentu saúde reprodutiva, dignidade, no apoiu psiko-sosial ba feto, labarik feto no sira nia família ne'ebé afetadu.
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NOTES TO EDITORS
The Spotlight Initiative, launched in September 2017, is a multi-year global partnership between the European Union and the United Nations to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls. It represents an unprecedented global effort to invest in gender equality and women's empowerment as a precondition and driver for achieving sustainable development goals.
In the Pacific, the situation is particularly worrying. In some countries in the region, 76 per cent of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime. Most affected are marginalised women and girls facing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.
In Timor-Leste, the Spotlight Initiative was launched on 5 March 2020. It is being implemented through five UN agencies (ILO, UNDP, UNFPA, UNICEF, and UN Women), in support of the Government, and in close collaboration with the civil society, the World Health Organization (WHO), International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the UN Human Rights Advisor's Unit (HRAU).
The overall vision of the Spotlight Initiative in Timor-Leste is that women and girls enjoy their right to a life free of violence, within an inclusive and gender equitable Timor-Leste. The programme is aligned to the Timor-Leste "National Action Plan on Gender based Violence (NAP GBV) (2017-2021)" and National SDG Roadmap. It contributes to the elimination of domestic violence/ intimate partner violence (DV/IPV) by responding to the needs of women and girls and addressing the underlying causes of violence against women and girls, using a multi-sectoral and intersectional approach across the ecological model.
This involves strengthening and widening partnerships and solidarity across civil society, Government, media, private sector and development partners. The Initiative empowers individuals, equip institutions at national, sub-national and community levels with the policies, systems and mechanisms to prevent and respond to VAWG, and encourage the public to challenge harmful gender norms. Using innovative approaches, the Spotlight Initiative builds a social movement of diverse advocates and agents of change for gender equality and social inclusion.
The Spotlight initiative deploys targeted, large-scale investments to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America and the Pacific. For more information about the Spotlight Initiative, visit https://spotlightinitiative.org
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Press Release
01 June 2021
Government of Timor-Leste and Partners Appeal for US$32 Million to Assist Flood Victims and Early Recovery
Dili, TIMOR-LESTE, 01 JUNE 2021: The Government, together with humanitarian partners, officially launched a Joint Appeal to address the residual humanitarian needs for the most vulnerable affected people and assist with early-recovery efforts in Timor-Leste. The appeal requests US$32.7 million (US $8.8m for immediate needs and US$23.9 for short-term requirements) that will directly assist 65,000 people and indirectly benefit all flood-affected population. A multi-sectoral response, the appeal identifies priority activities to address critical gaps across 9 sectors: Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) and Emergency Shelter; Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH); Gender and Protection; Food Security; Nutrition; Health; Education; Early Recovery and Livelihoods; and, Emergency Logistics.
The Government has allocated US$65.2 million through the Contingency Fund while the humanitarian partners including the United Nations, have so far committed US$10.7 million to support the response efforts. However, following the rapid assessments that have been completed, critical funding gaps still remain to meet the priority needs of the flood-affected communities and to kick-start the recovery process.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, H.E. Ms. Adaljiza Magno in her opening remarks stated that despite the significant efforts from the Government side to deliver the emergency needs to flood affected populations as well as increasing the contingency fund to implement short and long term programs to recover from the calamity, there are still considerable funding gap need to be filled. Therefore, H.E. Minister, on behalf of the government, calling upon for a voluntary contribution in order to help Timor-Leste to scale-up measures to recover from the catastrophic disaster.
The 2021 Timor-Leste Floods Response Plan will facilitate a coordinated by the Government and the humanitarian partners focusing on the next 7 months from end-
May to end-December 2021 with the aim of supporting a sustainable recovery and helping lay the foundations for ‘Building Back Better’.
The plan was jointly developed by the Government of Timor-Leste with support from the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office and all humanitarian partners. A copy of the detailed Joint Appeal is available at
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lBoh1Cr10dTiMiG2Sh5W4OXqoDmyzEpy/view?usp =sharing. Under the Government leadership, more than 86 organisations – 9 UN agencies, 63 humanitarian partners, and 14 Ministries/Departments – will participate in the 7-month Joint Response Plan ending in December 2021.
The latest official figures, show that 33,835 households have been affected by the floods across all 13 municipalities, with 44 reported fatalities.
Extensive damages have been reported to houses, buildings (including health facilities and COVID-19 quarantine and isolation centres), public infrastructure and agricultural land. A total of 2,163 hectares of agricultural land have been affected, negatively impacting food security in the coming days.
This disaster comes when the country has seen a surge in COVID-19 cases in recent months. The temporary displacement of people poses an increased threat to the further spread of COVID-19 and outbreak of other diseases.
United Nations Resident Coordinator Roy Trivedy emphasised that “it is imperative to speed up the delivery of assistance to Timor-Leste at this critical stage to prevent further loss of lives, additional damage to essential public services and infrastructure, and to stop the spread of diseases.” He also highlighted the fact that “this tragedy has hit at a time when the country is already struggling with the dangerous situation caused by COVID19.”
This Response Plan aims to directly target the humanitarian and early recovery needs of approximately 65,000 flood-affected people living with existing vulnerabilities. All flood-affected populations are expected to benefit directly and indirectly from the response, including rehabilitation of critical public infrastructure and restoration of essential services. In line with the Secretariat of State for Civil Protection’s Flood Response Strategy, the plan will prioritise support to those who remain in the evacuation centres, support the safe return and early recovery of those who were temporarily displaced and since returned to their communities.
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BACKGROUND NOTE FOR EDITOR
JOINT NEWS RELEASE
On 23 April, the National Parliament approved the amendment to the 2021 General State Budget to respond to the impact of COVID-19 and the flooding, which the President subsequently promulgated on 4 May. The allocation to the COVID-19 Fund increased from USD 31 million to USD 287.6 million, while the Contingency Fund allocation increased from USD 23.8 million to USD 65.2 million.
Many humanitarian partners and donors have supported the flood response through humanitarian funding and/or repurposing existing resources. In solidarity with the affected people of Timor-Leste, more donors, including the private sector, have been mobilising resources in support of the flood-affected people. Over USD 10.73 million of additional humanitarian funding has been mobilised by donors, UN agencies, humanitarian partners and the private sector.
The second phase of the humanitarian response, namely support to livelihoods and early recovery has started, including emergency cash-for-work initiatives, inputs schemes, and infrastructure rehabilitation and reconstruction. At the request of the Government, partners are preparing to support the Government with longer-term recovery planning through a Household and Building Damage Assessment (HBDA), a Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PNDA), and a Crop and Food Security Assessment Mission (CFSAM). These assessments aim to provide more comprehensive country-wide information to inform longer-term recovery and reconstruction of flood-affected households, communities, and agricultural lands.
During the Emergency Development Partners’ Meeting called by the Government on 13 April, the Government and the humanitarian partners agreed on the need for a strongly coordinated floods response, under the leadership of the Government. The 2021 Timor-Leste Flood Response Plan, therefore, is positioned as a tool to facilitate a coordinated floods response by the Government and the humanitarian partners (incl. donors), focusing on the initial 9 months to address the immediate humanitarian and early recovery needs of the most vulnerable affected people. Once the findings of a more comprehensive assessment of damages and losses become available, the Government and partners may consider developing a medium-term recovery plan in line with the Government’s commitment to Build Back Better.
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Press Release
19 May 2021
United Nations congratulates the people and Government of Timor-Leste on the anniversary of the Restoration of Independence Day
Today we mark the 19th anniversary of the day the people of Timor-Leste took control of their country (‘kaer rasik kuda talin’) and charted the course of their future.
With extraordinary effort and determination, the East Timorese people rebuilt their nation, consolidated peace, ushered in an era of peace, development and human rights, and became an inspiration to many other nations. Roads, homes, schools, livelihoods and public institutions were established. The first country to re-gain independence in the 21st century, Timor-Leste has matured and contributed to global peace, development, and security over the past 19 years while also safeguarding the welfare of its citizens.
The United Nations has played a significant role in supporting the democratic process and sustainable development in Timor-Leste. We are proud to have stood side by side with the people of Timor-Leste in their most challenging moments and to have helped lay the foundations for a prosperous and democratic future.
On behalf of the UN Country Team, I present our tribute to the people of Timor-Leste for their courage and perseverance, which you have all shown on the path to re-gaining independence. Today’s independence day is a day of pride for all.
The United Nations will continue to support the people and Government of Timor-Leste through these difficult times - caused by COVID-19 and the floods. Together with the Government, the people of Timor-Leste, and all friends of the country, the UN will also continue to strive for a better, more sustainable future for all.
Wishing all a happy Restoration of Independence Day.
Long live Timor-Leste!
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Press Release
04 May 2021
Government of Timor-Leste, European Union, and United Nations divert USD100,000 from EU-UN Spotlight Initiative to ensure safety of women and girls during flood emergency
DILI, 04 May 2021: EU-UN Spotlight Initiative in Timor-Leste has dedicated USD100,000 by reprogramming its budget to address the risks of increased violence against women and girls during flood emergency and response.
The Government of Timor-Leste, the European Union, and the United Nations, together with partners including the civil society organisations, remain committed to protecting and supporting women and girls during the humanitarian crisis caused by nonstop rains and heavy land sliding recently. According to the official estimates, more than 31,000 households have been affected across the country, 3925 people currently displaced, and 41 people have been reported dead.
Evidence shows that violence is often exacerbated in emergencies and natural disasters due to disruption of services, destruction of infrastructure, displacement, and limited access to referral services.
“In any natural disaster, women, girls and other vulnerable components of the society are the most affected due to pre-existing inequalities. The recent flooding in Dili and other municipalities has not only caused damage to people's homes, their belongings and public infrastructure but has recorded a total of more than 40 fatalities. The Government appreciates the reallocation of budget from the spotlight programme to support those affected, particularly women, girls and other vulnerable components", stated Secretary of State for Equality and Inclusion, Maria José da Fonseca Monteiro de Jesus.
In response to the humanitarian disaster in Timor-Leste and increased risk of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative has diverted USD100,000 to respond to the immediate needs of women, girls and vulnerable groups. Gender-based violence (GBV) is widely recognised as one of the most prevalent concerns in Timor-Leste, with almost 2 out of every 3 women (15-49 years) reporting having experienced intimate partner violence (IPV) in their lifetime.
“The dramatic flash flooding has caused extensive damages throughout the country and claimed the lives of many. Consequences have a far-reaching impact on everyone, on their health, their socio-economic wellbeing, and on their rights. Through the Spotlight Initiative our partners are shifting programming to scaling up support to civil society organisations on the front line of response, ensuring that services not only stay open but are made more accessible to groups often left behind. The European Union stands by the people of Timor-Leste at this time of suffering and remains committed to protecting and supporting women in Timor-Leste”, said the European Union Ambassador Andrew Jacobs.
The redirected funding will be used to disseminate information on the prevention of GBV and the referral systems, provide psychosocial support, basic food and non-food items to women, girls, and the vulnerable people that are survivors of GBV. The reprogramming will also provide technical guidance to the rapid gender assessment of the flooding, support monitoring and evaluation activities, and strengthen the GBV emergency response in the revised National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence (NAP GBV).
“During humanitarian crises, the burden on women and girls generally increases. Their workloads, childcare and other caring and support roles within the families are often multiplied. If they are running or working in small businesses, their livelihoods are generally affected. Levels of domestic violence often increase. And they are also affected if legal systems, health and other services stop functioning normally. Governments and key institutions in all societies have a responsibility to help ensure that people are safe, well supported and that the fundamental rights of all, especially women, girls and all vulnerable groups are effectively protected”, said Roy Trivedy, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Timor-Leste.
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NOTES TO EDITORS
The Spotlight Initiative, launched in September 2017, is a multi-year global partnership between the European Union and the United Nations to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls. It represents an unprecedented global effort to invest in gender equality and women's empowerment as a precondition and driver for achieving sustainable development goals.
In the Pacific, the situation is particularly worrying. In some countries in the region, 76 per cent of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime. Most affected are marginalised women and girls facing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.
In Timor-Leste, the Spotlight Initiative was launched on 5 March 2020. It is being implemented through five UN agencies (UN Women, UNFPA, UNDP, UNICEF, and ILO), in support of the Government, and in close collaboration with the civil society, the World Health Organization, International Organization for Migration, and the UN Human Rights Advisor’s Unit.
The overall vision of the Spotlight Initiative in Timor-Leste is that women and girls enjoy their right to a life free of violence, within an inclusive and gender equitable Timor-Leste. The programme is aligned to the Timor-Leste "National Action Plan on Gender based Violence (2017-2021)" and National SDG Roadmap. It will contribute to the elimination of domestic violence/ intimate partner violence (DV/IPV) by responding to the needs of women and girls and addressing the underlying causes of violence against women and girls, using a multi-sectoral and intersectional approach across the ecological model.
This will involve strengthening and widening partnerships and solidarity across civil society, Government, media, private sector and development partners. The Initiative will empower individuals, equip institutions at national, sub-national and community levels with the policies, systems and mechanisms to prevent and respond to VAWG, and encourage the public to challenge harmful gender norms. Using innovative approaches, the SI will build a social movement of diverse advocates and agents of change for gender equality and social inclusion.
The Spotlight initiative deploys targeted, large-scale investments to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America and the Pacific. For more information about the Spotlight Initiative, visit https://spotlightinitiative.org
For media inquiries, please contact
Marino Mouzinho, Media Adviser, Office of the Secretary of State for Equality and Inclusion. Email: marinosmouzinho@gmail.com
Marina Rini, Communication Officer, EU Delegation. Email:mmarina.rini@gmail.com
Ahmed Saleem, Communications Officer, UN Resident Coordinator’s Office. Email: mohammed.saleem@un.org
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Press Release
08 April 2021
Timor-Leste launches COVID-19 vaccination campaign
DILI, 7 APRIL 2021 – Timor-Leste kicked off its COVID-19 vaccination campaign on Wednesday 7 April 2021, World Health Day, at an event held at the Centro Saude Formosa in central Dili.
H.E. Francisco Guterres Lú Olo, President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, H.E. Taur Matan Ruak, Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, Ministers and other government and political leaders, religious leaders, government officials, representatives of civil society, UN agencies, donors and development partners took part in the launch event.
H.E. Francisco Guterres Lú Olo and the First Lady, Prime Minister, H.E Taur Matan Ruak and his spouse, the Archbishop of Dili, the Imam of the Grand Mosque, UN Resident Coordinator, World Health Organization Representative, United Nations Children’s Fund Representative and a number of others received their first dose of vaccines at the ceremony.
The event kicked off Phase 1 of the vaccination campaign as outline in the National COVID-19 Vaccine Deployment Plan. This phase would involve vaccinating all health workers and frontline personnel, those above 60 years of age and those with comorbidities. Phase 2 will cover the rest of the eligible population. All persons above 18 years of age are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
“The launch of the vaccination campaign is the most effective tool in reducing the impact of COVID-19 on our communities, of complementing other health protocols, and helping our country return to normalcy,” said H.E. Francisco Guterres Lú Olo, President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. “By taking the vaccine today, I am showing my confidence in the vaccine and that it is the right choice for our country. I urge all those eligible for the vaccine to do the same to protect yourself, your family and community.”
The vaccinations are being administered at health posts and immunization posts set up by the Ministry of Health.
“The vaccine is the most powerful tool to control and subsequently end the COVID-19 pandemic. And it will be possible only when those eligible receive the vaccine and encourage their eligible family members and friends to do the same,” said H.E Dra Odete Maria Freitas Belo. I also appeal to everyone to continue following the COVID-19 preventive measures including those who have received the vaccine; no one is safe until everyone is safe. So, please continue to wear the mask, wash your hands with soap and water, practice physical distancing, do not cross borders illegally, and do not believe in rumours and hearsay,” added the Minister of Health.
To support the vaccination campaign, a multi-media awareness campaign has also been launched by the Ministry of Health on television, radio, social media and through advocacy meetings with national, municipal and community leaders. This includes messages in video and audio formats, and in sign language.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has badly damaged the health systems and is impacting on peoples’ lives and livelihoods. But we are also fortunate to have seen the best of joint efforts and multilateral cooperation to develop and deploy the COVID vaccine in the shortest possible time ever. It is great to see the arrival of the vaccines in Timor-Leste, for which the Government, UN agencies and all partners have been working so hard. Timor-Leste welcomes the arrival of the first batch of COVID-19 vaccines through the COVAX facility as a way forward to ending the pandemic. Now on, we must get to make sure the vaccines are deployed well and that further vaccines are procured and made available to everyone in the country. None of us is safe until everyone is safe”, said UN Resident Coordinator Roy Trivedy.
Timor-Leste received 24,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine on 5 April, the first consignment of the doses allocated through the COVAX Facility for 20 per cent of Timor-Leste’s population. The shipment included syringes and safety disposal boxes for the vaccination campaign.
COVAX is co-led by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), with UNICEF as the key implementing partner. The COVAX Advance Market Commitment (AMC) is achieving a multilateral response to
the pandemic crisis, leveraging the expertise of multilateral agencies, the resources of donors and the commitment of recipient counties, to support global equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines.
For several months, COVAX partners have been supporting governments and partners around the world to prepare for this moment. In Timor-Leste, WHO and UNICEF have supported the development of the national vaccine deployment plan and an awareness raising campaign at national and subnational levels, while UNICEF has supported cold chain strengthening. UNICEF and WHO also supported training of health workers in the introduction and roll out of the vaccine, identification and enumeration of priority groups, vaccine transport and storage, vaccine administration and management of any side effects.
The COVAX Facility and provision of vaccines are supported by funding from the Governments of Australia, Bhutan, Canada, Colombia, Republic of Korea, Kuwait, Monaco, New Zealand, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Team Europe, United Kingdom, the United States of America and a number of other donors and institutions.
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ABOUT COVAX
COVAX, the vaccines pillar of the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator, is co-led by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance Gavi) and the World Health Organization (WHO) – working in partnership with UNICEF as key implementing partner, as well as civil society organisations, vaccine manufacturers, the World Bank, and others. In the Americas, the PAHO Revolving Fund is the recognized procurement agent for COVAX.
The Advance Market Commitment is funded through the generosity of governments, private sector, philanthropic and multilateral partners, See the AMC donor table for a complete list of pledges.
Notes to Editors
Full COVAX News Note to Editors: https://www.who.int/initiatives/act-accelerator/covax/covax-news-note-to-editors
List of donor pledges to the Gavi COVAX AMC: https://www.gavi.org/sites/default/files/covid/covax/COVAX-AMC-Donors-Table.pdf
UNICEF COVAX page https://www.unicef.org/supply/covax-ensuring-global-equitable-access-covid-19-vaccines
For further information, please contact:
Ministry of Health:
XXXXX
UNICEF
Rukshan Ratnam, Communication Specialist (English enquiries): rratnam@unicef.org;
Antonio Gomez, Communication Officer (Tetun enquiries): angomez@unicef.org.
WHO
Lisa Hasan, Communication Officer (English and Tetun): hasane@who.int, +670-77099494
Shobhan Singh, Communication Specialist (English and Tetun): singhsho@who.int; +670-77543990
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