Ongoing activities

Addressing the peacebuilding priority issues

In 2010, PRDP launched the first Working Group which is conducting in-depth research on the theme of the “promotion of individual and party interests over the national interest.” A press conference was held at end of the event with all major radio and television stations in attendance. The Working Group members quickly took ownership over the process and results of the research will be available during the course of 2011.

Building on this experience the programme will gradually expand to the other three issues. The Working Groups will be responsible to identify and formulate recommendations, solutions and approaches which may be addressed to specific audiences (government, civil society, international community, etc.).

Peace houses- Building on the local, traditional ways of resolving conflicts

Continuing to engage in the districts and developing district-based capacities for conflict resolution and joint initiatives for conflict resolution. Local spaces for discussion and resolution of local conflicts will be created and will build upon the local traditional custom of bringing people together to resolve conflicts (Fatin Nahe-biti – the mat meeting place).

Responding to requests made by many Timorese participating in the programme, PRDP undertook the construction of three peace houses in the districts of Aileu, Baucau and Maliana. Built with traditional materials and methods, the houses will serve as a neutral space for community dialogue on an ongoing basis.

Bringing local level insights to the national level

The districts will be closely linked to the Working Groups  to help close the gap between the capital, Dili, and the rest of the country, which remains remote and disconnected.

International Dialogue on Statebuilding and Peacebuilding

In April 2010, CEPAD and Interpeace participated in the International Political Dialogue on Peacebuilding and Statebuilding organized by the OECD. At this conference, CEPAD presented the findings and key observations from the consultative process with Civil Society Organizations on peacebuilding and statebuilding as an input into the meeting. CEPAD continues to participate in this peacebuilding platform as a member of the Working Group on Political Dialogue. In fact, CEPAD drafted a paper for the Platform on Timor-Leste’s experience in political dialogue.