Dili, 9 September 2025 – The Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice (PDHJ) participated in the official launch of the Youth Reporters for Democracy Media Group, organized by the Alumni of the Youth Parliament of Timor-Leste (APFTL) at the CNC Hall. The event brought together 25 young people from diverse groups, including youth with disabilities (PWDs), members of the LGBTQ+ community, and other young people.
Representing PDHJ, Deputy Ombudsman for Good Governance Rigoberto Monteiro participated in the launch and also served as a speaker on the topic “How PDHJ Assesses the Current Situation of Children’s Rights in Timor-Leste.” In his remarks, he commended APFTL for its initiative to create the Youth Media Reporter Group and highlighted the importance of including marginalized youth such as PWDs, young women and LGBTIQ+ youth in public discussions. He also acknowledged the support of Plan International Timor-Leste, UNICEF, and the European Union, which funded the activity as part of a strategic partnership with APFTL.
From PDHJ’s perspective, the creation of the Youth Reporters group is a significant step to give voice to vulnerable youth and to strengthen advocacy, particularly through social media on issues related to children’s and youth rights. As an independent constitutional body mandated to protect and promote human rights under national legislation and international treaties such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), PDHJ will continue to monitor, advocate, and work with partners so that the fundamental rights of children and young people are effectively protected.
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