Government of Timor-Leste

The Minister of Justice, Sérgio de Jesus Fernandes da Costa Hornai, chaired the seminar's opening in honour of the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. The event, under the theme "Torture and the Protection of Human Rights in Timor-Leste", was organised by the National Centre Chega! I.P. in collaboration with the Association of Former Political Prisoners (ASSEPOL/FPPA) and took place on June 25^th, 2024, in the Conference Room of the Former Balide District Court in Dili. 

The seminar aimed to promote the International Day of Support for victims of torture, inviting the public to reflect on and honour those who have suffered cruel violence, especially political prisoners in Timor-Leste and around the world. It also sought to share memories of past torture documented in the Chega! Report and its recommendations. 

During his speech, the Minister of Justice emphasised the vital need to preserve historical memory and reaffirmed Timor-Leste's commitment to the international conventions against torture. He also underlined the challenges faced from the pre-independence days to the present day, highlighting the fundamental role of the Chega! National Centre as the guardian of the country's historical memory.

The seminar also served as a platform to discuss public policies and initiatives to strengthen justice and guarantee human rights in the country. The Ministry of Justice reiterated its commitment to promoting a just and inclusive society where all citizens have access to justice and are protected against any form of inhuman or degrading treatment. 

Government authorities, representatives of civil society, and non-governmental organisations participated in the event, reaffirming Timor-Leste's collective commitment to promoting human rights and building a future based on reconciliation and justice.