Timor-Leste advocates for inclusive development and equitable access to new technologies at UN
DÍLI, 24 September 2026 (TATOLI) – In New York, the Secretary of State for Equality, Elvina Sousa Carvalho, represented Timor-Leste at the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Meeting marking the 40th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development, where she advocated a people-centred model of development based on inclusion, equal opportunities, and respect for human rights.
The meeting was held at United Nations Headquarters, within the framework of the 81st Session of the General Assembly and brought together representatives of Member States and observers to review progress since the Declaration’s adoption in 1986 and the current challenges to realising the right to development.
In her address, the Secretary of State affirmed that development is an inalienable human right and highlighted Timor-Leste’s experience of transitioning from conflict to peace and democratic stability. She stressed that sustainable development depends not only on economic growth but also on population participation, equal opportunities, social inclusion, accountable institutions, and respect for human rights.
Elvina Sousa Carvalho also drew attention to the inequalities that continue to constrain the development prospects of many countries, particularly Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States. In this context, she highlighted the impacts of climate change, economic shocks, financing difficulties, and unequal access to technology.
The Secretary of State presented three priority areas for collective action. The first concerns digital transformation and artificial intelligence, which should expand opportunities and prevent the intensification of inequalities, with developing countries participating in shaping and equitably benefiting from technological advances.
The second priority is the need for a more inclusive international financial architecture, with greater access to financing and partnerships that support developing countries in strengthening resilience, adapting to climate change, and pursuing the energy transition, in accordance with their respective national circumstances.
As a third priority, Timor-Leste expressed support for continuing a constructive dialogue on the draft International Covenant on the Right to Development, which is currently under discussion within the United Nations framework.
The Secretary of State further argued that the principles enshrined in the Declaration must be translated into concrete, measurable results grounded in solidarity, equity, participation, and a fair distribution of the benefits of development.
Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1986, the Declaration on the Right to Development recognises the right of all individuals and peoples to participate in, contribute to, and benefit from economic, social, cultural, and political development, thereby enabling the full realisation of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Timor-Leste’s participation in this meeting was part of the activities of the High-Level Week of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, held in New York.
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