Geneva, March 10, 2025 – The delegation of the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice of Timor-Leste (PDHJ) was present at two important events of the CPLP Human Rights Network, held at the UNESCO Office in Geneva. The meeting brought together representatives of national human rights institutions from Portuguese-speaking countries to discuss cooperation strategies and strengthening institutions in the international context.
The first event, entitled “Strengthening CPLP Human Rights Institutions: Cooperation and Engagement with International Mechanisms”, took place from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM, addressing the need to strengthen ties between CPLP Member States and international human rights organizations. Immediately after, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the CPLP Human Rights Network Meeting was held, where the Union Public Defender’s Office of Brazil officially joined the group, enhancing legal cooperation and promoting access to justice in Portuguese-speaking countries.
During his intervention, the Human Rights and Justice Ombudsman of Timor-Leste, Virgílio da Silva Guterres ‘Lamukan’, highlighted the importance of member countries working to achieve ‘A’ status of accreditation with the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), an international recognition of independence and compliance with the Paris Principles.
“It is not an impossible mission to obtain ‘A’ status, but a possible mission, even when facing challenges. I encourage our CPLP brothers to join forces and mobilize heads of state to contribute as much as possible, especially with policies and legislation that guarantee independence, transparency and compliance with the Paris Principles,” said Guterres.
The Ombudsman also emphasized his institution’s commitment to encouraging the National Parliament of Timor-Leste to continue to ratify international human rights treaties and conventions. Since independence in 2002, Timor-Leste has ratified several international instruments and remains committed to aligning itself with global standards. Guterres revealed that Parliament is currently discussing accession to the International Covenant for the Protection of All Persons against Enforced Disappearance and the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.
The CPLP Human Rights Network, created in 2013, brings together justice providers, national human rights commissions and other institutions from Portuguese-speaking countries, promoting a space for dialogue and cooperation to strengthen the protection and promotion of fundamental rights. The network has played an essential role in exchanging good practices, sharing experiences and jointly defending public policies that guarantee greater respect for human rights within the CPLP. Furthermore, it has been a fundamental mechanism for the involvement of national institutions with international organizations, reinforcing the importance of implementing global standards in the local contexts of each member country. The Union Public Defender’s Office joining the group represents a significant step towards expanding the network and strengthening free legal assistance and the defense of the most vulnerable in Portuguese-speaking countries.
The active participation of the Timorese delegation in these events reinforces the country’s commitment to international cooperation in human rights and to the strengthening of national institutions within the scope of the CPLP.
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