BOBONARO, 26 may 2023 (TATOLI)—The European Union (EU) together with UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) are supporting the Ministry of Health (MoH) to establish a Public Health Center and Safe Room for Victims of Gender Based Violence (GVB) in Atabae, Bobonaru municipality.
At the launch event, UNFPA Representative in Timor-Leste, Pressia Arifin Cabo said UNFPA was grateful for the launch of the safe room in Atabae, saying that the achievement was achieved due to collective efforts and UNFPA played a strong determination to end Gender Based Violence and harmful practices.
“We are trying to reach all Timorese women and girls across the country with the best health facilities they need. We are creating a safer society for all,” said Pressia Arifin Cabo, in Atabae, Bobonaro, Friday.
Cabo considers gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the most pervasive human rights and public health problems in the young nation of Timor-Leste.
The 2016 Timor-Leste Demographic Health Survey stated that one-third (33%) of women aged 15-49 in Timor-Leste has experienced physical violence since the age of 15.
Meanwhile, Marc Friedrich, EU Ambassador to Timor-Leste said the Spotlight Initiative, which is supported by the EU, signifies the EU’s commitment to investing in Timor-Leste’s future.
“We aim to promote gender equality, prevent violence, support survivors, and address the root causes of gender-based violence,” he said.
This safe space will serve as a sanctuary, a platform for education and awareness, and a center for collaboration. It will be a sanctuary where survivors can heal and rebuild their lives, free from judgment and stigma.
Vice Minister of Health, Bonifacio Maucoli dos Reis sees this safe house as an important achievement to continue to strive to increase capacity in serving VBJ clients and provide space for those who need help.
“This is an opportunity for all of us including partners and other NGOs to work together and provide better services to VBJ,” he said.
The Safe Room project started the rehabilitation process on June 1, 2022, with financial support from the EU and a UNFPA of $47,2255.72.
This project supports health workers to set up a safe room to be used as a counseling room. And also several bedrooms that can be used by clients to rest including health workers, as well as bathrooms that are sensitive to gender and disability.
The launching event was also attended by representatives of the Bobonaru City Government, the Bobonaru City Health Service, PNTL Representatives, F-FDTL, and the local community.
Journalist: Cidalia Fatima
Editor: Armandina Moniz
Translation: José Belarmino De Sá
