The SPDD-TL initiative reached to an end and contributed to strengthen decentralization by bringing governance and essential services closer to citizens, with a special focus on ensuring equitable access for vulnerable communities.

Timor-Leste achieved significant milestones through this initiative, including the establishment of key legal frameworks, the enhancement of institutional capacity, and improvements in municipal governance. Notable accomplishments include the implementation of the Administrative Decentralisation Strategy and the enactment of critical legislation such as the Law on Municipal Finance and the Law on Administrative Division of the Territory.

The Policy Dialogue was co-chaired by His Excellency Mr. Tómas do Rosário Cabral, Minister of State Administration, alongside the European Union Ambassador to Timor-Leste, H.E. Marc Fiedrich. Participants included municipal leaders from Ermera, Baucau, Liquiçá, and Lautém, as well as representatives from international agencies, civil society organizations, and senior government officials.

Highlighting the importance of continued collaboration, EU Ambassador H.E. Marc Fiedrich emphasized the vital role of sustained political dialogue in advancing decentralization efforts in Timor-Leste. He stated, “The EU’s budget support through the SPDD-TL programme marks a pivotal step in strengthening Timor-Leste’s decentralized governance. This partnership is rooted in shared values of transparency, inclusion, and resilience, reflecting our commitment to empower local institutions and foster sustainable development. As we advance, our focus remains on ensuring lasting reforms and enabling local authorities to better serve their communities with autonomy and accountability.”

Minister of State Administration H.E. Tómas do Rosário Cabral emphasized the ongoing efforts to evaluate the Minimum Conditions essential for effective decentralization, as well as preparations for the upcoming Municipal Elections in 2027, which are key to advancing local governance. He also highlighted the progress toward finalizing the establishment of one-stop-shops and modernization centers to improve service delivery. Furthermore, H.E. Minister Cabral underscored the importance of continued capacity building and digitalization initiatives to strengthen the efficiency and responsiveness of local institutions. Reflecting on these efforts, and noted, “This dialogue provides a valuable opportunity for all stakeholders to collaborate and strengthen our decentralization efforts, which are essential for improving governance and service delivery at the community level.”

Looking ahead, the European Union reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining political dialogue beyond the SPDD-TL programme in 2025, with continued budget support and technical assistance on fiscal decentralization and digitalization of public services.

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