DILI, 13 November 2025 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste reaffirmed its commitment to global peace and stability during the Fourth Committee debate on the Comprehensive Review of Special Political Missions (Item 52), emphasizing the need for clarity, inclusivity, and resilience in future UN peace efforts.
Timor-Leste welcomed the Secretary-General’s UN80 Initiative, which aims to enhance efficiency and coordination in peace operations. It views the upcoming 2025 review of the peacebuilding architecture as a pivotal opportunity to reinforce international cooperation for lasting peace.
Timor-Leste highlighted its own experience with various UN Special Political Missions—from UNAMET in 1999 to UNOTIL in 2005—as examples of how SPMs can transform post-conflict societies. These missions are not just diplomatic tools, but are mechanisms that rebuild trust and dignity. Drawing from this history, Timor-Leste advocates for SPMs that are clear in purpose, inclusive in method, and courageous in implementation, capable of turning fragility into resilience.
Timor-Leste outlined several guiding principles to strengthen SPMs: clear and realistic mandates, strong political support, national ownership, adequate resources, accountability, adaptability, and coordination among global and regional actors. It emphasized that sustainable peace relies on partnership with host states, resource alignment with mission goals, and innovation to meet evolving global challenges. Inclusivity—particularly gender equality, youth engagement, and climate resilience—is vital to ensuring that peacebuilding reflects the diversity of the societies served.
Finally, Timor-Leste stressed the importance of well-planned exit strategies and smooth transitions that leave behind strong institutions and empowered communities. It reaffirmed readiness to share its lessons and experiences, urging all nations to support SPMs as instruments of stability, unity, and hope in building a more peaceful and interconnected world.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
