DILI, 27 january 2026 (TATOLI) – The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (MoFAC), is organising a three-day workshop to enhance participants’ understanding of international migration and human rights.
The workshop, titled International Migration and Human Rights, is being held at Hotel Novo Turismo in Dili from 27 to 29 january.
It brings together government officials, civil society representatives and other stakeholders to discuss international migration challenges and policies.
The three-day workshop also helped strengthen participants’ capacity to understand regional migration trends and the protection of human rights across ASEAN.
Yuji Ono, Chief Advisor for the JICA ASEAN Project said the workshop provides a comprehensive overview of labour migration, forced migration and human trafficking.
He said it also examines the role of ASEAN, governments and non-state actors in promoting and protecting the rights of migrants.
Ono said the initiative urges participants to assess whether national and regional public policies and institutional responses are consistent with the ASEAN framework.
He expressed hope that participants would gain deeper knowledge of migration and human rights issues in the region.
Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice (PDHJ) Virgilio Guterres said international migration is a profound human reality, not simply cross-border movement.
He said migration reflects hope, survival, dignity and human aspiration.
“While many people migrate in search of safety and better opportunities, they often face vulnerability, exploitation, discrimination, and human rights violations,” said Guterres.
He stressed that migration policies must place human rights at the center of governance.
The event was attended by Malaysia’s Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Amarjit Singh, Japan’s Chargé d’Affaires in Timor-Leste, Sakai Yuki, and João Martins, National Director for the ASEAN Political-Security Community at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
