Díli, 22 October 2026 — The Prison Services Support Network (Rede Apoiu Servisu Prizional – RASP), through the HAK Association, held its first roundtable discussion of 2026 to share updated information, strengthen cooperation among network members, and contribute to reforms aimed at promoting and protecting the human rights of prisoners in Timor-Leste.
In her opening remarks, Deputy Ombudsman for Human Rights, Maria Marília da Costa, emphasized the importance of strengthening relationships and cooperation among RASP members. She explained that the meeting provided an opportunity to share updated information on each organization’s progress and challenges over recent months, harmonize data and findings relating to cases identified in the country’s three prisons, build a common understanding, and develop more effective advocacy to promote and protect prisoners’ rights.
The roundtable is part of RASP’s ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination and information-sharing among organizations working on prison-related issues. In 2025, the PDHJ hosted the meeting and provided budgetary support for the HAK Association’s participation and related expenses. The first meeting of 2026 was organized by the HAK Association and held at the FOKUPERS meeting room in Farol, Dili.
Participants included representatives from the Office of the Provedor for Human Rights and Justice (PDHJ), the National Directorate of Prison Services and Social Reintegration (DNSPRS), the HAK Association, PRADET, DNAS, INDDICA, ALFeLa, Clínica Bairro Pite, Haktanek Direitu Sidadaun (HDS), and the directors of Becora, Gleno and Suai prisons.
Through continued dialogue and cooperation, RASP members seek to strengthen their collective efforts to address prison-related challenges and advance the promotion and protection of prisoners’ human rights in Timor-Leste.
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