Building a Safer and More Resilient UN in Timor-Leste

Resident Coordinator underscores duty of care as Designated Official for UN Security

UN in Timor-Leste boosts workplace safety with fire preparedness training

The United Nations in Timor-Leste has stepped up its efforts to strengthen workplace safety and emergency preparedness through a fire safety training session conducted for UN personnel at the UN House in Dili. 

Organised by the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), the session aimed to enhance operational resilience and ensure staff are equipped to respond effectively in emergencies.

Managed by Allan Mendoza, UNDSS Security Adviser and Representative to Indonesia and Timor-Leste, the training brought together 24 participants, including nine women from resident UN agencies and security staff. Participants received both theoretical and hands-on instruction, learning how to use fire safety equipment and practising real-time emergency response techniques.

The interactive exercises helped improve confidence and response capacity among staff members, who expressed appreciation for the training and called for regular refresher sessions to maintain safety awareness and readiness.

Resident Coordinator’s Leadership in UN Security

UN Resident Coordinator Funmi Balogun, who also serves as the Designated Official for UN Security in Timor-Leste, commended the initiative, underscoring the UN’s continued commitment to the safety and security of its personnel. 

“Emergency preparedness goes beyond following procedures; it’s about creating an environment where staff can perform their duties safely and respond effectively during emergencies,” said Ms Balogun. “These sessions strengthen our collective responsibility to protect one another while maintaining operational stability.”

As Designated Official, Ms Balogun is responsible for safeguarding all UN personnel, assets, and facilities across Timor-Leste. 

Building a culture of safety and resilience

The training reflects the UN’s broader efforts to embed a culture of safety, resilience, and collective responsibility throughout its operations.

Through the UN Security Management System, UNDSS continues to lead risk awareness and emergency preparedness programmes across the country, supporting the UN’s commitment to staff welfare and effective service delivery.

By fostering agency collaboration and conducting regular safety drills, the UN in Timor-Leste continues to strengthen its operational readiness — ensuring a secure working environment for all personnel in support of its mission to serve communities across the country.