DILI, 03 May 2025 (TATOLI)—Timor-Leste currently ranks 39th in the global press freedom index for 2025. In response, the Secretary of State for Social Communication (SEKOMS) is implementing policies to raise awareness about social communication laws among institutions to improve the country’s ranking.
Secretary Expedito Dias Ximenes highlighted that Timor-Leste’s press freedom index has fluctuated over the years. In 2021, the country ranked 71st, then dropped to 17th in 2022, climbed to 10th in 2023, rose to 20th in 2024, and now stands at 39th in 2025.
“These rankings are based on calculations and scores determined by international organizations. Therefore, it is necessary to raise awareness about social communication laws among journalists and institutions, as journalistic content often impacts private individuals and official state entities,” Ximenes stated during a press freedom march at Largo de Lecidere, Dili.
He emphasized that many state institutions are still unaware of media policies, particularly social communication laws and the journalistic code of ethics.
“Journalists are often summoned for investigations, which should not happen. When journalistic content affects an individual’s privacy, there are mechanisms such as corrections or the right to reply. However, many state institutions remain unaware of these policies,” he explained.
To address this, SEKOMS is working with the Press Council to educate state institutions about journalists’ rights while also ensuring that journalists adhere to ethical standards.
Additionally, SEKOMS is collaborating with the Press Council to review social communication laws, originally drafted in 2014, to align them with current technological advancements.
“We need to reassess these laws. The revision process is ongoing and will be presented to the Council of Ministers before proceeding to the National Parliament,” Ximenes stated.
He reaffirmed that the IX Constitutional Government is committed to ensuring press freedom and protecting citizens’ rights.
“While we enjoy press freedom, we must also understand our responsibilities. The press freedom index is evaluated based on five key indicators outlined by Reporters Without Borders: legislation, security, economy, politics, and socio-cultural factors. These indicators influence a country’s ranking,” he explained.
Ximenes also addressed the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on journalism, noting that AI is becoming dominant in news production.
“This is why we urge journalists and media organizations to raise awareness about the consequences of artificial intelligence,” he added.
Press Council President Otelio Ote emphasized that AI has significantly influenced journalism and media, presenting both opportunities and challenges.
“The United Nations can support press freedom by ensuring easier access to information, allowing broader communication worldwide,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Vice Prime Minister and Minister Coordinator for Economic Affairs, Tourism, and Environment, Francisco Kalbuady Lay, urged journalists to contribute to high-quality information for the future.
“I represent the IX Government, and I encourage you to continue your work. Press freedom exists, and we all live in a democracy. However, when disagreements arise, journalists must uphold moral and professional responsibility. I recognize your dedication, and I urge the press to contribute positively to the future and remain a strong partner for SEKOMS and the Press Council,” he concluded.
Journalist: Osoria Marques
Editor: Cancio Ximenes
Translation: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
