EU-UN Spotlight Initiative strengthens the role of civil society to fight domestic and gender-based violence in Timor-Leste

The EU-UN Spotlight Initiative supported a four-day workshop and intense discussion in which civil society organisations examined the root causes of the most serious incidents of violence against women and girls from the era of the occupation to the present day. The exercise was instrumental in planning future actions on the ground and improving the prevention of domestic violence and the response to victims of gender-based violence.

The Learning Consortium, supported by the European Union with a contribution of USD 726,000, is a partnership led by Asia Justice and Rights (AJAR) with Asosiasaun Chega! Ba Ita (ACbit) and the National NGO Forum (FONGTIL).

The ‘Learning for Transformation’ 12-months project involves 21 civil society organizations from seven municipalities: Bobonaro, Ermera, Viqueque, Baucau, Aileu, Liquisa and Covalima.

Reflecting on the importance of civil society in the work on ending violence against women and girls, H.E. Andrew Jacobs Ambassador of the European Union to Timor-Leste commented, “I believe that civil society organisations are playing a fundamental role, since they are the closest to the communities and families. They are often the first one to detect and respond to challenges especially during crisis and difficult times. They can reach into the crevices of communities and families, governments and institutions, sparking change and unleashing solutions at the local, national and global levels”.

“The United Nations – in partnership with the European Union and other development partners - are committed to making comprehensive and sustainable investments to address violence against women and girls in Timor-Leste. Transformation in this area would not be possible without a strong and active civil society. We are pleased to be in partnership with AJAR, ACbit and FONGTIL, who will build partnerships with other civil society organizations to strengthen innovative and practical approaches to prevent GBV and support survivors of violence.”, said Roy Trivedy, UN Resident Coordinator.

“As people from civil society organizations, we are working directly and indirectly to respond to violence against women and girls nationally and in the muncipalities of Viqueque, Baucau, Aileu, Liquisa, Ermera, Bobonaro no Covalima. We will identify the challenges and gaps in our work and with the support of the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative, through our partnership with UN Women, we will strengthen and develop our capacity to create stronger programming and sustainable and healthier organizations.” said Joviana Guterres, Programme Manager AJAR Timor-Leste. 

The three-year investment of the EU-supported programme in Timor-Leste amounts to USD 15 million. It aims to strengthen country’s legal frameworks and institutions, promote positive social norms, increase access to support services for survivors of violence, improve the collection and use of data for better policy making and to strengthen partnerships with civil society organizations.