LocationsA reflection in the context of UNDP's "Conference on Achieving Just Societies – Inclusive Justice Pathways for People and Planet in Asia and the Pacific"
Building Just Societies: Timor-Leste's Justice Reform
November 21, 2024
UNDP Conference on Achieving Just Societies – Inclusive Justice Pathways for People and Planet in Asia and the Pacific
UNDP
In a rapidly evolving world, justice systems play a pivotal role in promoting fairness, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring access to justice for all. The recent UNDP Conference on Achieving Just Societies—Inclusive Justice Pathways for People and Planet in Asia and the Pacific served as a critical platform for advancing multilateral efforts to address justice challenges across the region.
The theme, “Multilateralism for People-Centered Justice: Global, Regional, and National Partnerships,” resonates deeply with Timor-Leste's experience as a young democracy. Since gaining independence in 2002, the country has made remarkable strides in establishing its justice system. However, challenges remain, requiring a forward-looking, people-centered approach to justice sector reform.
Justice Reform in Timor-Leste: A Roadmap for Progress
Timor-Leste’s justice journey has been both inspiring and instructive. From the early days of independence, when the country had no judges, prosecutors, or public defenders, to its current network of courts, including four district courts and a Court of Appeal, the nation has come a long way. Yet, the legal system, largely shaped by UNTAET regulations, requires further modernization.
Recognizing this, the Government of Timor-Leste has launched an ambitious reform effort, supported by UNDP. Under the Prime Minister's authority, a dedicated office for justice sector reform is driving this initiative in close collaboration with the Ministry of Justice. This effort aims to address systemic challenges, improve access to justice, and align Timor-Leste's justice framework with international standards.
At the heart of this initiative lies a comprehensive roadmap, developed with UNDP's expertise. This actionable plan identifies nine key areas for reform, including human resource development, enhanced coordination, digital modernization, and expanding judicial access to underserved communities. The establishment of new courts, such as the Supreme Court of Justice, reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening the legal framework and promoting the rule of law.
Justice Reform Report
Carolina Silva/UNDP Timor-Leste
High-Level Representation from Timor-Leste
The conference showcased Timor-Leste’s justice reform progress with active participation from key leaders. Dra. Lucia Lobato, Coordinator for the Justice Sector Reform from the Prime Minister’s Office, presented the government’s strategic priorities, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing systemic challenges and ensuring access to justice for marginalized communities.
Additionally, Dr. Alfonso Lopes, Timor-Leste’s Prosecutor-General, emphasized the significance of enhancing prosecutorial capacity and integrating modern tools to improve the justice system's efficiency and transparency. Their presence underscored the government's commitment to advancing justice sector reform through high-level leadership and strategic partnerships.
The Importance of Capacity Building
One of the most pressing challenges in Timor-Leste’s justice system is capacity building. The development of a robust and predictable training policy for judges, prosecutors, public defenders, and judicial officials is essential. Such a policy would ensure consistent, high-quality training aligned with evolving legal standards and societal needs.
By fostering professional growth and ensuring quality assurance, a comprehensive training framework would not only enhance the functioning of the justice sector but also build public trust and confidence in the system.
Multilateral Partnerships for Justice
The conference underscored the importance of multilateralism in tackling regional justice challenges. Platforms like the Judicial Integrity Network in ASEAN and the Justice Action Coalition provide opportunities for countries to share experiences, adopt best practices, and collaborate on innovative solutions. For Timor-Leste, partnerships with organizations like UNDP have been instrumental in advancing justice sector reforms.
UNDP's role in assembling a high-level working group of diverse experts has enriched the reform process. This partnership has brought global expertise to bear on local challenges, ensuring that recommendations are both practical and aligned with international principles.
Dra. Lucia Lobato, Coordinator for the Justice Sector Reform from the Prime Minister’s Office, participating on the UNDP Conference on Achieving Just Societies – Inclusive Justice Pathways for People and Planet in Asia and the Pacific
UNDP
Digital Transformation and Innovation
As part of its reform agenda, Timor-Leste is prioritizing the digital modernization of its justice system. Digital tools can enhance efficiency, improve access to justice for remote communities, and ensure transparency. The proposed spatial planning tool, supported by UNDP, exemplifies this commitment. By aligning municipal planning with national goals, this tool could become a cornerstone of future reforms.
A Shared Commitment to SDG16
Timor-Leste’s efforts align closely with Sustainable Development Goal 16, which emphasizes peace, justice, and strong institutions. The conference highlighted the need for regional collaboration to achieve SDG16+, focusing on inclusive governance, gender equality, and resilience to emerging challenges.
By investing in digital governance, expanding judicial training, and fostering inclusive policies, countries in the region can build scalable, people-centered justice solutions. Timor-Leste’s roadmap, with its focus on innovation and accessibility, offers a model for others to follow.
The Path Forward
Timor-Leste’s commitment to justice reform demonstrates the power of collaboration between national governments and multilateral organizations. By leveraging partnerships, mobilizing resources, and embracing innovation, the country is paving the way for a more inclusive and resilient justice system.
As we work towards achieving just societies, the lessons from Timor-Leste remind us that justice is not a static goal but a continuous journey—one that requires trust, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to human rights.
Author: Bruno Lencastre, Chief Technical Advisor for Governance, UNDP Timor-Leste
For more information contact bruno.lencastre@undp.org
Conference "Achieving Just Societies"
UNDP
Related
content
content
