Díli, 12 June 2026 – The Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice warmly congratulates Centro Nacional Chega! (CNC) on the inauguration of the new Chega! Archive Centre, an important milestone in Timor-Leste’s efforts to preserve historical memory and promote human rights education.
The establishment of the Archive Centre reflects CNC’s commitment to implementing the recommendations of the Commission for Reception, Truth and Reconciliation (CAVR), particularly those related to the institutionalization of memory and the promotion of human rights through education and learning. It also advances the vision of creating a national centre dedicated to memory, research, and learning for present and future generations.
The Ombudsman welcomes this important initiative as more than an archive of historical records. The Chega! Archive Centre will serve as a space where citizens, students, researchers, policymakers, and visitors can engage with the history of Timor-Leste, reflect on the lessons of the past, and deepen their understanding of the values of human rights, justice, and democracy.
Preserving historical documents, testimonies, and evidence is essential not only for safeguarding the nation’s collective memory but also for honoring the experiences of survivors and victims of past human rights violations. By ensuring that these stories are remembered and accessible, the Centre contributes to building a society that learns from its history and remains committed to preventing the recurrence of abuses.
The Ombudsman commends CNC, its partners, and all those who contributed to making this vision a reality. The launch of the Chega! Archive Centre represents a valuable investment in education, research, remembrance, and the promotion of a culture of human rights and peace in Timor-Leste.
May the Centre continue to serve as a beacon of learning, reflection, and remembrance, helping to strengthen the foundations of justice, reconciliation, and respect for human dignity for generations to come.
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