Timor-Leste | Development and Peace

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In 2005, the majority of international aid agencies withdrew from Timor-Leste, which had only gained independence a few years prior. Development and Peace, however, chose to remain, believing that only long-term involvement would enable the young nation to live in peace and develop a sustainable democratic framework.

In general, Timorese civil society lacks the experience and financial means to respond effectively to all the challenges it is facing. That is why we have built our program in a way that will help new organizations learn how to better defend their demands.

In spite of the fact that women were very active in the resistance movement against the occupation, the government has paid little heed to their concerns since the country achieved independence. For this reason, we pay special attention to groups that defend women’s rights.

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Radio Timor Kmanek

Community radio played a major role in Timor-Leste’s efforts to gain independence from Indonesia in 2002, and it continues to play an important role in the development of this young nation.

The 25-year occupation, still vivid in the minds of most people, caused the death of over 100,000 people, or 10 percent of the tiny country’s population. In the hope of starting a healing and reconciliation process, the Catholic Church created Radio Timor Kmanek, a radio station in the capital, Dili. The radio station was launched in 1994 by Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Archbishop Carlos Belo, a longtime collaborator of Development and Peace.

With continued financial support from Development and Peace, the station can broadcast various news and civic education programs led by diverse members of the Timorese community. Youth, women, men, and rural and urban communities are all working together to promote understanding and to build a strong culture of democracy and peace in the country.

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