Divine Word Priest discusses Timor-Leste's human rights, inclusive progress at UN High-Level Political Forum

In his address to High-Level Political Forum committee leaders, government representatives, and delegates from different civil society organizations, Fr. Gregory Minz, SVD recognized the progress in Timor-Leste and the accomplishments of its government in the past 20 years while urging the need for improvement in human rights protection.

"Despite the progress, we realize the gaps and the areas for further improvement to ensure the protection of people’s rights, and no one is left behind—and ensure Timor-Leste for all," Minz said in a speech delivered in New York on July 18.

He pointed out that civil society groups recommend an increase in the national budget to boost local production as a means toward achieving the goal of zero hunger.

Increasing the budget allocation for health could cut down on the incidence of malnutrition and stunting, which is currently at 47 percent, the priest said.

On education, Minz echoed the recommendations of civil society organizations.

The civil society groups have proposed promoting "re-entry policies for out-of-school girls and developing a healthy environment curriculum," he said.

Civil society organizations have also recommended zero tolerance for violence in schools.

Minz also said they have suggested that the government "develop reporting and referral mechanisms for sexual harassment, discrimination, bullying, and violence cases at school, and provide counseling services."

On gender equality, civil society groups have proposed the engagement of "people from all walks of life, including women, in solving peace and security-related problems and fully achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, Minz said.

The priest added that there should be a "Push for the settlement of disputes by peaceful means, in the spirit of solidarity and respect for international law, and develop an alternative approach committed to multilateralism, a shared regional identity, and people-to-people concerns."

The government should "Affirm the civil and human rights of LGBTIQ persons in accordance with international human rights standards," Minz said.

On Peace, the civil society groups have proposed to the government that it "ensure transparency and public participation in the decision-making process for peace for its citizens, equal rights and access to justice, and strong institutions."

The government should "commit to dialogues, collaborate, and share knowledge and resources towards advancing a common agenda to realize a life of dignity for all with Timor-Leste people," Minz said.

The civil society groups have also proposed clean water, and affordable, clean energy for the Timor-Leste people.

Formerly known as East Timor, the country was a colony of Portugal from 1702 to 1975. It was also under Indonesian sovereignty from 1976 to 1999.

It has a land area of 14,874 square kilometers and a population of 1.35 million in 2023.

As a missionary of the Divine Word, Minz, originally from India, has worked in Timor-Leste on social issues to assist the government and civil society organizations in improving the lives of its citizens. - Oliver Samson