Metinaro, 14 July 2025 – The Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice, Virgílio da Silva Guterres “Lamukan”, officially opened a five-day training on “The Role of FALINTIL-Timor-Leste Defense Force (F-FDTL) and Human Rights” for members of the General Support Force (FAG) at the F-FDTL General Headquarters in Metinaro.
In his opening remarks, the Ombudsman expressed his deep appreciation for the opportunity to speak before two critical institutions, F-FDTL and the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) on the topic of human rights.
“When we speak only of FDTL, it may sound technical. But when we talk about FALINTIL, we are speaking of a historical legacy. FALINTIL represents a spirit that did not waver even without foreign military support or international recognition. It stood firm to defend the people—and their rights, including human rights,” said Guterres during the event held on 14 July 2025.
He emphasized that the training should serve as a guiding reference for F-FDTL members, reminding them that their role is not to dominate the state, but to serve it.
“Wearing a uniform and carrying a weapon is not a symbol of ownership of the state. It is a symbol of responsibility—to defend the rights of the people, as enshrined in Article 1 of the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, a sovereign democratic state governed by the rule of law, rooted in the will of the people and respect for human dignity.”
The Ombudsman expressed hope that the training would strengthen the professionalism of F-FDTL members and deepen their commitment to upholding human rights in their daily duties.
Also speaking at the event, Lieutenant Colonel João Bosco Ximenes, Commander of the General Support Force (FAG), highlighted the importance of the training for the military’s alignment with human rights principles.
“FALINTIL-FDTL must carry out its duties with respect for human rights norms. While we have our own disciplinary regulations, they must work in harmony with national laws and international human rights standards,” he noted.
He also acknowledged the dual role of F-FDTL, especially during emergencies when the military is required to support the police, emphasizing that even in such situations, actions must remain within the bounds of law and human rights.
“This training is vital to improve our members’ understanding of how to act responsibly, with a professional mindset and conduct, particularly in solving problems without violating human rights principles.”
Lt. Col. Ximenes encouraged all participants to be fully engaged and to share the knowledge gained with their peers.
The training, held from 14 to 18 July 2025, is a result of ongoing cooperation between the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice (PDHJ), the UN Human Rights Advisory Unit (UADU), and the F-FDTL, a partnership initially established in 2017 and renewed in 2023. Human rights training remains a key focus of this collaboration, aimed at enhancing the capacity of F-FDTL personnel, reinforcing their responsibilities, and strengthening clarity around their mission in democratic society.
This post is also available in: Tetun