MoH and UNFPA, through KOICA-funded "Together for Equality" project, Launches Safe Space to Support GBV Survivors in Timor-Leste
Baucau, November 21, 2024 – A new Safe Space facility has been launched at Eduardo Ximenes Regional Hospital in Baucau to provide critical support for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). This initiative is part of the "Together for Equality" project, funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), which aims to strengthen the health sector's response to GBV in Timor-Leste. The newly opened center is the sixth of its kind in the country and the second under the KOICA-funded project, contributing to the global KOICA initiative to end violence against women and girls.
Safe Spaces within health facilities play a vital role in identifying GBV cases, providing survivors with medical care, and referring them to essential services such as shelters, counseling centers, or specialized medical care. This facility offers first-line support and ensures survivors have access to the necessary care in a confidential, private and supportive environment.
Key guests at the launch event included H.E dr. Flávio Brandão M. de Araújo Vice-Minister for Hospital Operationalization; Dr. Elisabeth Leto Mau, Director General of Primary Health Care of the Ministry of Health; Dr. Domingas Bernardo, Officer In-Charge UNFPA in Timor-Leste; H.E. the Secretary of Social Affairs of the Authority of the Municipality of Baucau, Commander of National Police of Baucau, Executive Director of HoREX-Baucau, National Directors and members referral network.
Speaking during the launching ceremony, H.E. dr. Flávio Brandão M. de Araújo emphasized the importance of the Safe Space as a symbol of hope and transformation for GBV survivors:
"Today, we give Baucau a Safe Space, a space of hope for those experiencing gender-based violence. I urge all healthcare providers to deliver services here with dignity and confidentiality.
Let this center not only serve survivors but also become a beacon for eliminating GBV in Baucau." He added.
Dr. Domingas Bernardo, Officer In-Charge of UNFPA in Timor-Leste, emphasized the significance of the project in advancing gender equality, which is central to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). "The KOICA-funded project 'Together for Equality' addresses deep-rooted gender inequalities and strengthens policy frameworks. We are proud to work hand-in-hand with KOICA and partners to support the government in creating safe and enabling spaces for women and girls," she stated.
Significant progress has been made over the years, including the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for safe spaces, training health professionals to offer compassionate and specialized care, and fostering cross-sector collaboration for a holistic approach to GBV support. These collective efforts are starting to show results, but the fight against GBV continues. She added
This safe space, established under the 'Together for Equality' initiative, will a structured place where women’s and adolescent girls’ physical and emotional safety is respected and where they are supported through processes of empowerment, providing them with protection, healthcare, and counseling to aid in their recovery. This Safe space become a source of hope and a crucial support for those in need. UNFPA and KOICA remains committed to working with our partners in Timor-Leste and beyond to ensure that every person can live free from fear and harm.”
The launch of this Safe Space marks a critical step forward in Timor-Leste's commitment to providing comprehensive care and support for survivors of gender-based violence.
The first safe space funded by KOICA was launched on November 11, 2024, at the Community Health Center of Formoza in Dili municipality. This launch marked an important milestone in enhancing the health sector’s participation in providing an essential health service package to survivors of GBV within GBV referral pathways and case management system to ensure a strong multisectoral response to GBV in Dili municipality.
