Timor-Leste called for people-centred development and practical implementation at the 4th ASEAN Consultation on the Human Right to Development in Dili.
Timor-Leste is hosting the 4th ASEAN Consultation on the Human Right to Development in Dili from 20 to 21 August. Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Bendito Freitas opened the two-day meeting, held under the theme “Strengthening and Reinforcing the ASEAN Community and Its Implementation”.
The consultation involved representatives of ASEAN member states, the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR), the United Nations, human rights institutions, civil society organisations and the media. Minister Freitas highlighted its significance as the first AICHR event organised in Timor-Leste since the country became a full ASEAN member.
Minister Freitas said development should go beyond economic growth, national income and infrastructure, emphasising opportunities, human dignity, reduced inequality and public participation. He also identified climate change, rapid technological change, artificial intelligence, economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions among the challenges facing ASEAN and the international community.
Referring to the ASEAN Declaration on Promoting the Right to Development and the Right to Peace Towards Realising Inclusive and Sustainable Development, adopted in 2025, Minister Freitas called for commitments to translate into concrete, measurable results. Priorities included stronger institutions and public participation, quality education and healthcare, decent work and economic opportunities, particularly for vulnerable communities.
Source: TATOLI
