"For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment” Safe Space in Timor-Leste – A History of Courage and Hope

In Timor-Leste, there is a place where survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) find refuge, healing, and hope—a Safe Space. Agostinha, a survivor of violence, has bravely shared her journey, demonstrating how one woman's strength and resilience can inspire others to break free from the cycles of abuse and begin anew.

Meet Agostinha-a name changed for confidentiality-a survivor of constant abuse at the hands of her husband. Her story is not uncommon—many women face unimaginable hardship, yet through resilience, courage and right support, they find a way to break free.

"My name is Agostinha (not my real name), and I came to this place through the police after enduring repeated gender-based violence. For a long time, I suffered, but eventually, I found the strength to report it. That decision led me to this Safe Space. Before I came here, I felt overwhelmed by my problems, but after arriving at this Safe Space, I feel safe. The service from the healthcare providers was very good. They provided me with excellent counseling, and even though we come here with big problems, once we leave, it feels like all of our problems have been addressed. We leave empowered and comfortable."

Despite the trauma she endured, Agostinha made the life-changing decision to seek help. Her husband, often under the influence of alcohol, would return home and beat her and their son. The relentless cycle of violence took a devastating toll on her physical and mental well-being, but deep down, Agostinha knew she couldn’t endure it any longer-something had to change.

“I used to have no strength, but coming to this Safe Space with the help of the healthcare provider, I found the strength to stand up and say no to violence, especially for my children," she said. Determined to break the cycle of abuse, Agostinha made the brave decision to report her situation to the police, knowing that silence would only prolong the suffering for herself and her child.

When Agostinha arrived at the Safe Space, she was physically injured, but the healthcare team treated her with kindness and compassion. A midwife welcomed her, ensuring her safety and listening to her story with empathy, offering the comfort and support she desperately needed.

"I came to this Safe Space with an injured hand. When I met the midwife, she treated me very well, as if I were her own mother. She spoke to me with kindness and confidentiality. I felt safe here, so I shared everything I had experienced. I went home and told my son, ‘Today, Mother met a good friend who helped me and gave me great advice, like her own mother.' This made me feel very strong. We are not alone in these situations."

The care Agostinha received went beyond treating her physical wounds—it helped her heal emotionally. For the first time in years, she felt empowered. “The Safe Space helped me realize that violence is not acceptable, and I have decided to seek justice through legal means. My family supports me in this decision,” she shared.

Agostinha’s story is a powerful call to action for other women experiencing violence to speak out, seek help and break the cycle of violence. She is a living testament to the strength that comes from accessing support, and her message is one of hope and courage.

"When you face violence, don’t be afraid to report it to the police or seek help at a Safe Space. Here, we are safe, receive excellent care, and are guided toward a path forward—one that respects our choices and empowers us to rebuild our lives,” she advises.

Agostinha urges women who suffer in silence to take action. "Do not remain silent. If we stay quiet, the violence will continue. Stand up, report the violence to the police, or visit a Safe Space. Even though the burden may feel heavy, it will become lighter."

As a mother, Agostinha is also deeply concerned about how the violence affects her children’s mental and emotional well-being. “Although we say good things to our children, if I continue to suffer violence, it can traumatize them and impact their mental health.” She believes that breaking free from the cycle of violence is crucial for their well-being and future.

“If my husband wants to return to live with me, he must promise before the law that he will change his behavior because violence not only affects me-it puts psychological pressure on my children,” Agostinha said.

The Safe Space and its dedicated healthcare providers, particularly Midwife Eugenia, have played a critical role in Agostinha’s journey to healing. Eugenia’s compassionate care provided Agostinha with the safety and support she needed during the difficult time.

"I help survivors feel safe and recover from the trauma they have faced. I am grateful for the support from our partners, especially UNFPA, who have supported GBV Case Management training for healthcare providers and the establishment of these Safe Spaces," Eugenia shared.

Since her assignment began on march 27, 2022, Midwife Eugenia has supported more than 400 survivors, including both Timorese and foreign nationals living in Timor-Leste. The Formosa Safe Space, where Agostinha sought help, has already made a profound impact. Since its inauguration on November 11, 2024, it has provided care for 13 survivors, including Agostinha. Agostinha’s case is now progressing through the legal system, and she and her children are now living in harmony, free from the violence they once endured.

Since 2021, with support from UNFPA, the government of Timor-Leste has established 8 Safe Spaces in 8 municipalities across the country. These spaces are staffed with trained healthcare providers specializing in GBV case management, with the vision of creating a society free from gender-based violence and harmful practices. These Safe Spaces serve as vital resources for identifying GBV cases, providing medical care, and referring survivors to other essential services such as counseling, shelters, and legal assistance.

UNFPA continues to provide technical support to ensure these Safe Spaces remain fully fuctional and to assist the government of Timor-Leste in monitoring and implementing the National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence (NAP GBV 2022-2032).