40th Universal Periodic Review of human rights: UK statement on Timor Leste

The United Kingdom recognises the continued improvement of the human rights situation in Timor Leste, most notably in enhancing women’s participation in politics and the establishment of a new social security system. We commend Timor Leste for progress made on reparations, including the establishment of the National Chega Centre, and for approving legislation that focusses on combating corruption and human trafficking, although some of the legislation still needs to be enacted.

We remain concerned by the the prevalence of gender-based violence and the number of human rights violations reportedly committed by security forces. The UK is also concerned about the draft decree law that would criminalise defamation, which could limit the freedom of expression.

We recommend Timor Leste:

1. Ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;
2. Allocate sufficient resources to tackle the issue of gender based violence, to enable the delivery of GBV commitments, including responding to GBV during the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring the provision of core services to victims;
3. Provide adequate training and resources for all relevant front-line officials so they can effectively identify victims of human trafficking and offer victim appropriate assistance.

Thank you.