DILI, 12 november 2024 (TATOLI) – A New Safe Space facility has been launched at the Community Health Centre in Dili to provide critical support for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). This initiative is part of the “Together for Equality” project, funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), which aims to strengthen the health sector’s response to GBV in Timor-Leste. The newly opened center is the fifth of its kind in the country and the first under the KOICA-funded project, contributing to the global KOICA initiative to end violence against women and girls.
Safe Spaces within health centers play a vital role in identifying GBV cases, providing survivors with medical care, and referring them to essential services such as shelters, counseling centers, or specialized medical care. This facility offers first-line support and ensures survivors have access to the necessary care in a confidential and supportive environment.
Key guests at the launch event included HE Dr. Elisabeth Leto Mau, Director General of Primary Health Care of the Ministry of Health; H.E. Mrs. Suji Lee, Deputy Country Director of KOICA in Timor-Leste; Mr. Armando da Costa, Director General of SEI; and H.E. the Secretary of the President of the Authority of the Municipality of Dili.
Domingas Bernardo, Assistant Representative of UNFPA in Timor-Leste, emphasized the significance of the project in advancing gender equality, which is central to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “The KOICA-funded project ‘Together for Equality’ addresses deep-rooted gender inequalities and strengthens policy frameworks. We are proud to work hand-in-hand with KOICA and partners to support the government in creating safe and enabling spaces for women and girls,” she stated.
Significant progress has been made over the years, including the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for safe spaces, training health professionals to offer compassionate and specialized care, and fostering cross-sector collaboration for a holistic approach to GBV support. These collective efforts are starting to show results, but the fight against GBV continues. She added
H.E. Suji Lee, Deputy Director of KOICA in Timor-Leste, expressed her belief in the impact of the new Safe Space: “This safe space, established under the ‘Together for Equality’ initiative, will be a refuge for women and girls affected by GBV, providing them with protection, healthcare, and counseling to aid in their recovery. We are proud to see this space become a source of hope and a crucial support for those in need. KOICA remains committed to working with our partners in Timor-Leste and beyond to ensure that every person can live free from fear and harm.”
Speaking during the launch, dr. Elisabeth Leto Mau, Director General of Primary Health Care of MoH, noted: “The role of the health sector is central to ending all forms of gender-based violence, given that health service providers are usually the first point of contact for the survivors. I am very pleased to be part of the launch of the Safe Space at the Community Health Centre in Formosa, an important step towards strengthening the health sector’s ability to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.”
The launch of this Safe Space marks a critical step forward in Timor-Leste’s commitment to providing comprehensive care and support for survivors of gender-based violence.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
