UN Timor-Leste Annual Report 2022

In 2022, Timor-Leste celebrated its 20th anniversary of independence restoration and membership in the United Nations. The country reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development, peace, and inclusivity. The Peacebuilding Commission engaged with Timor-Leste for the first time during the UN General Assembly, recognizing its role in supporting conflict-affected regions. Timor-Leste has made significant progress toward becoming a lower middle-income country and improving human rights, press freedom, and human development indicators such as infant mortality reduction and access to electricity. Infrastructure development has enhanced access to education, healthcare, transportation, and trade. However, challenges remain, including high rates of malnutrition, gender inequality, inconsistent policies, limited access to quality education and healthcare, and dependence on oil exports. Climate change impacts, such as floods and displacements, pose additional obstacles to economic recovery. The upcoming parliamentary elections in 2023 present an opportunity to prioritize human capital development and consolidate gains since independence. To diversify the economy, Timor-Leste can explore joining ASEAN, becoming a WTO member, and graduating from LDC status, which would require improvements in finance, governance, and public sector reforms. Investments in human capital, health, nutrition, and education are crucial. Upholding human rights, strengthening gender equality, reducing violence, and building resilience are important goals. The government must commit to scaling up investments, strengthening education and health services, promoting access to justice, and empowering young people. The UN in Timor-Leste acknowledges the government's leadership and aims to support its priorities, enhance policy coherence, and facilitate service delivery. The UN will help implement and report on human rights commitments, engage stakeholders, and support Timor-Leste's development goals, leveraging global commitments like the SDGs. The partnership between the UN and Timor-Leste will mobilize resources, expertise, and norms to foster a prosperous and inclusive country.