Catalyzing Progress, Igniting Hope: Sharing Stories, Shaping Strategies, and Envisioning the Future of the Together for Equality Programme (T4E)

Elisabeth Hall, City 8

Talking Points for UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Funmi Balogun

Director-General of the NAP GBV Commission,

Officials of the State Secretariat for Equality and Inclusion (SEII),

Representatives of the Line Ministries & Departments,

Joint Steering Committee Members,

Country Director of KOICA Timor-Leste,

Civil society partners,

Representatives of the Media,

Development Partners, and

Colleagues from the UN,

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Bom dia ba ita hotu hotu (Good morning everyone!)

It's an honor to be here today at this significant event, the culmination of our collective efforts under the "Together for Equality" programme. Together, we stand united in our unwavering pursuit of gender equality, the eradication of gender-based violence (GBV), the provision of essential services, and the fortification of the justice system in Timor-Leste.

Gender-based violence remains an insidious global human rights violation, casting a long shadow over countless lives. Regrettably, approximately one in three women in Timor-Leste experiences gender-based violence during her lifetime. As representatives of the United Nations, it's our shared responsibility to confront this issue head-on and strive for progress, aligning ourselves with the National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence, the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, and forging strong partnerships with our development counterparts, civil society, youth, and the media.

I commend Timor-Leste for launching the NAP-GBV in 2022 and this year, taking concrete steps to implement and monitor CEDAW recommendations. This reflects the government's unwavering commitment to combat violence against women and girls, emphasizing coordinated efforts, prevention, improved survivor services, legal reforms, and rigorous monitoring for a safer, more equitable future.

However, even with these significant advancements, more work lies ahead. Strengthening our response and intensifying our collective efforts is imperative. As we convene in this forum today, let's remind ourselves that our actions have a direct and lasting impact on these individuals. Our initiatives, policies, and determination can change lives. By working hand in hand, we can be the architects of transformation, creating a society where violence is intolerable, and equality is indisputable.

In our pursuit of gender equality, we recognize that progress is not the work of a single entity but the collective effort of many. It's the result of partnerships forged and bridges built between governments, civil society organizations, development partners, and communities. The "Together for Equality" programme, in which we are privileged to participate, is a shining example of the power of collaboration.

Yet, as we celebrate these achievements, we must remain acutely aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Gender-based violence is deeply entrenched, rooted in power imbalances, harmful norms, and systemic inequalities. It's a complex problem that requires multifaceted solutions. We must continue to adapt and innovate, drawing on the wealth of knowledge and experience present in this room.

One crucial aspect of our journey is the recognition that gender-based violence is not solely a women's issue; it's a societal issue. Men and boys play a pivotal role in shaping attitudes and behaviors. Engaging men and boys as allies in the fight against gender-based violence is not just strategic; it's essential. It's about challenging stereotypes and promoting positive masculinity, creating spaces where men and boys can advocate for change, contributing to a more equitable society.

Before I conclude, I'd like to express our deep appreciation for the vital support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). Your continued prioritization and commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment have been instrumental in driving progress. Your partnership and assistance have significantly contributed to the success of the "Together for Equality" programme.

The work we embark on today and the discussions we engage in over the next two days are not merely rhetoric and declarations. They're about translating our words into action, our commitment into tangible results. Our mission remains steadfast: to create a Timor-Leste where every woman and girl can live free from the fear of violence, where essential services are readily accessible, and where justice is not a distant dream but a reality.

Thank you for your dedication, commitment, and collaboration in this critical endeavor. Together, we possess the power to catalyze progress, ignite hope, and shape strategies that will leave a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals affected by gender-based violence in Timor-Leste. Let us seize this moment and together, author a new chapter in the journey towards a more equitable and just society.

Thank you.