In Timor-Leste, 59% of girls and women between the ages of 15 to 49 have experienced physical or sexual violence by their partners.
UNFPA is actively working not only to prevent gender-based violence (GBV) but also to build capacity of the health sector to respond to the needs of GBV survivors.
UNFPA supported the Government in the development of the Law Against Domestic Violence (2010) and the subsequent GBV Action Plans.
UNFPA developed the National GBV Response Guidelines for Health Professionals, and continues to train health personnel to respond to the needs of GBV survivors in a professional humane and dignified manner.
To this end, UNFPA supports:
- Coordination within the health system and with other sectors for a multisectoral response to GBV
- Carries out awareness-raising interventions targeting community members to reduce cases of GBV, disseminate information about available services and encourage reporting
- Coordinates the construction of Safe Spaces across the country for temporary shelter for survivors of GBV
- Builds the capacity of relevant government officials to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the GBV Action Plans
- Promotes an inclusive approach, encourages a greater focus on GBV prevention and access to GBV services for vulnerable groups such as people living with disabilities or the LGBTI community.
