Timor-Leste Youth Delegate highlights right to education at UN Human Rights Summit
DÍLI, 31 July 2026 (TATOLI) — On the second day of the 20th International Human Rights Summit, co-sponsored by the Permanent Mission of Timor-Leste to the United Nations together with Youth for Human Rights International, the youth delegate from Timor-Leste highlighted how unequal access to education has shaped the lives of many young people in Timor-Leste, emphasizing that education is a fundamental human right and the foundation for peace and opportunity.
Drawing on personal experiences, she called on governments to invest in quality education, empower youth through human rights education, and ensure every young person has the opportunity to build a future based on dignity, inclusion, and shared prosperity.
Ambassador Dionisio Babo Soares, Permanent Representative of Timor-Leste to the United Nations, presented a special recognition to Mary Shuttleworth, President of Youth for Human Rights International, commending her long-standing efforts to promote human rights education worldwide and recognizing her valuable work in raising awareness through schools, youth programs, and community initiatives.
The Ambassador expressed appreciation for her lasting contribution to fostering a more informed, respectful, and responsible younger generation.
In his closing remarks, the Ambassador congratulated the young leaders for demonstrating their commitment to human rights and peace through thoughtful speeches, personal stories, and evidence-based presentations.
“Their contributions showed that effective leadership combines compassion with action, and that lasting change comes from pairing strong values with measurable impact,” said in a statement.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Soares encouraged the participants to take the lessons learned beyond the conference by strengthening youth initiatives, promoting human rights literacy, building partnerships, and fostering peace through dialogue and respect.
He emphasized that education is a fundamental human right and a powerful force for creating more inclusive and peaceful societies, reminding everyone that peace begins within each individual and grows through everyday actions.
TATOLI
