Dili, 12 December 2024- On the 76th International Human Rights Day, the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice of Timor-Leste, Virgílio da Silva Guterres ‘Lamukan’, called on public entities, especially the State and Government, to urgently address the socio-economic challenges faced by citizens. Speaking at an event in the Suai Room, Timor Plaza, Guterres highlighted the stark contrast between Timor-Leste’s commendable achievements in political and civil rights and the persistent violations of economic, social, and cultural rights.
“Timor-Leste can take pride in its political and democratic rights, as well as its commitment to freedom of expression, which ranks among the highest in Southeast Asia. However, these achievements must not overshadow the reality that many of our people continue to suffer from unmet socio-economic needs,” Guterres stated.
The Ombudsman referred to concerning data on poverty and stunting, noting that 41.8% of the population lives in poverty, and 46.7% of children under five are stunted due to chronic malnutrition. He raised serious concerns about the implications of stunting, emphasizing its impact on the country’s future. Malnourished children face significant challenges in health, education, and their ability to contribute to national development, posing a long-term threat to the country’s progress.
Guterres also raised issues surrounding unresolved eviction cases in Dili and Baucau, which have left many families displaced and without adequate resettlement. Additionally, the government’s decision not to renew contracts for temporary teachers has disrupted the learning process in schools, while resource shortages and a lack of medicines continue to plague the health sector, further infringing on citizens’ socio-economic rights.
Despite these challenges, the Ombudsman acknowledged Timor-Leste’s strong democratic foundations and highlighted the importance of balancing political rights with socio-economic priorities. “While our progress in civil liberties is commendable, we must ensure that this is matched by efforts to fulfil the basic needs of our people, particularly those most vulnerable,” he added.
The event, organized in collaboration with USAID, was attended by senior officials, including the Deputy Ombudsman, directors, PDHJ staff, the President of the Public Service Commission, the Anti-Corruption Commissioner, the Inspector General of State, and other distinguished guests.
As the world celebrates the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Timor-Leste is reminded of its commitment to uphold all human rights—balancing its notable achievements in political freedoms with the urgent socio-economic needs of its population.
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