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Examining Timor-Leste’s Economic and Social Progress: Ombudsman Guterres’ Reflections on 25 Years of Independence

On August 27, 2024, the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice, Virgílio da Silva Guterres ‘Lamukan,’ spoke at a national seminar organized by the NGO La’o Hamutuk. Held at CNE Hall Lalini Lariguto in Caicoli, Dili, the seminar commemorated the 25th anniversary of Timor-Leste’s popular consultation and was themed “Reflecting on Economic, Social, and Cultural Development Post-Independence.” Prominent speakers included Charles Scheiner and Eliziaria Febe Gomes, both researchers from La’o Hamutuk.

The seminar aimed to evaluate the progress made since Timor-Leste’s liberation from Indonesian occupation. Ombudsman Guterres focused on the topic: “Progress and Achievements in the Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights of the People of Timor-Leste.” He noted that discussing these achievements was difficult not because of the theme itself but due to the harsh realities faced by many, which complicate a meaningful discussion.

Guterres recalled a statement by Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Supreme Commander of FALINTIL, made in response to skepticism about the economic viability of Timor-Leste’s independence while he was in Cipinang Prison. Gusmão had said: “When Timor-Leste becomes independent, we will not transform Dili into Jakarta or Singapore, but we will bring Dili to each community, meaning prosperity to each person. In the first five years, we might only eat cassava, but in ten years, we will be selling rice.” Guterres emphasized that, despite these optimistic projections, the reality after 25 years has not fully realized these aspirations.

The Ombudsman also emphasized the Constitution of Timor-Leste, particularly Articles 16 to 61, which address fundamental rights and freedoms, including economic, social, and cultural rights. In addition to the Constitution, Timor-Leste has ratified the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights. He suggested using these two documents to evaluate how these rights have been fulfilled over the past 25 years.

He highlighted ongoing issues such as inadequate healthcare in Dili, including a severe lack of medicine, and a 47% stunting rate as evidence of systemic violations of people’s rights. Guterres also criticized the government’s practice of evicting people without providing basic conditions or alternatives. He praised Lao Hamutuk for its annual reviews of budget allocations and noted that many rights violations stem from budget distribution practices.

Guterres also critiqued the government’s handling of fiscal issues and the continued disproportionate benefits enjoyed by a small elite. He concluded by expressing concern that more energy has been spent on personal interests rather than on addressing the needs of the population. He called for a reassessment and revitalization of hope among Timorese, emphasizing the need to restore and enhance the promises of independence.

The seminar was attended by civil society representatives, academics, university members, and public entities.

This post is also available in: Tetun

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