Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dili, August 14, 2024 – The Provedor de Direitos Humanos e Justiça (PDHJ) proudly announces the launch of its new survey report, “Public Perceptions on PDHJ,” which provides an in-depth analysis of public awareness, perceptions, and access to PDHJ’s services. This landmark survey, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and conducted in cooperation with Alumni Parlamentu Foinsa’e Timor-Leste (APFTL), reflects PDHJ’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in promoting and protecting human rights and good governance in Timor-Leste.
Survey Overview Conducted across all municipalities and the Oecusse Ambeno Special Administrative Region (RAEOA), the survey engaged 5,487 participants aged 20-59, including diverse demographic groups such as men, women, LGBTIQ+ individuals, and persons with disabilities. The study aimed to gauge public awareness of PDHJ, evaluate understanding of its role, and identify barriers to accessing its services.
Key Findings Awareness and Understanding: The survey reveals that while 33.1% of respondents are aware of PDHJ, only 26.1% understand its role in human rights promotion and protection, and 22.6% recognize its role in promoting good governance.
- Regional Disparities: Awareness of PDHJ is notably higher in Dili at 50.5%, compared to lower levels in other municipalities, particularly in the Ponta Leste region.
- Access Challenges: Over 80% of respondents find it difficult to access PDHJ services, primarily due to lack of knowledge about access procedures and geographical barriers.
- Public Sentiment: There is notable dissatisfaction and a lack of confidence in PDHJ’s ability to address complaints effectively, with concerns about inadequate responses and unresolved issues.
Introduction and Rationale Established under Article 27 of the Constitution of RDTL and Law No. 7/2004 (amended by Law No. 8/2009), PDHJ is tasked with safeguarding citizens’ rights and ensuring good governance. As PDHJ celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2024, this survey marks a crucial step in reflecting on its achievements and identifying areas for improvement.
The survey’s findings will guide PDHJ in refining its services, enhancing public trust, and reinforcing its role in fostering human rights and good governance.
Methodology The survey utilized a non-probability convenience sampling method, with data collected from a diverse range of public spaces. Efforts were made to minimize bias and ensure a representative sample, though some limitations, such as educational and language barriers, were noted.
Ethics and Limitations Participants were informed about the study’s purpose, and their privacy and confidentiality were strictly maintained. The survey faced challenges, including limited prior engagement with municipal authorities and accessibility issues within certain communities. Future surveys will address these limitations to ensure more comprehensive data collection.
Support and Acknowledgments This survey was made possible through the financial support and collaboration of UNDP, the APFTL, and dedicated PDHJ staff. Their contributions have been instrumental in advancing the goals of this research.
Looking Ahead PDHJ is committed to leveraging these insights to enhance its services and better serve the Timorese public. The survey report is a valuable tool for understanding public perceptions and will inform future strategies to ensure PDHJ remains effective in its mission.
For Media Inquiries: Joana da Cruz +670 78566745 Antoninho Bernardino +670 77709837 E: media@pdhj.tl Website : www.pdhj.tl Facebook, Instagram, LInkedIn: PDHJ Timor-Leste
About PDHJ The Provedor de Direitos Humanos e Justiça (PDHJ) is an independent body established to promote and protect human rights and ensure good governance in Timor-Leste. With a mandate to address complaints, investigate allegations, and advocate for justice, PDHJ plays a critical role in upholding the rights and freedoms of Timorese citizens.
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