Women in East Timor play a central role in conflict resolution and peacebuilding, but their contributions remain largely unrecognized because they occur in informal settings, according to a study by the Fundação Mahein.
The research, based on interviews conducted in Díli and Bobonaro, highlights that peacebuilding in the country extends far beyond formal institutions and is deeply embedded in everyday social and economic life.
Women act as key mediators within families and communities, helping prevent and resolve disputes through dialogue and social networks rather than formal mechanisms like police or authorities. Their approach often focuses on maintaining harmony and avoiding escalation, making it especially effective in sensitive local conflicts.
The study notes that women’s contributions are both preventive and reactive, addressing not only immediate disputes but also underlying causes such as financial stress and economic dependency. Their influence is often indirect, relational, and deliberately discreet, forming what researchers describe as a kind of “hidden power” essential to community stability.
Read more about this topic: East-Timor Police appointed first female deputy Commander-General
However, this role remains constrained by patriarchal norms, limiting women’s visibility and participation in formal political and institutional frameworks.
To address this gap, the study recommends:
- Greater recognition of informal peacebuilding roles
- Stronger integration of women into formal decision-making processes
- Increased economic support, including access to credit and income-generating opportunities
- Expanded public awareness of gender equality
According to the Fundação Mahein, investing in women’s economic empowerment should be seen not only as development policy but also as a long-term strategy for peace and security.
