Dili, 26 May 2026 (Media Democracia) – The Confederation of Timor-Leste Workers’ Unions (KSTL) held its first national congress for workers for the establishment of the Association of Informal Economy Workers under the theme “Social and Economic Justice for Workers in the Informal Economy Sector.” The activity took place over two days, May 25-26, 2026.
According to the President of the Timor-Leste Workers’ Union (KSTL), Almeiro Vila Nova, the objective of the congress is to provide a platform for informal workers to gain recognition, as they have long been marginalized and are highly vulnerable to economic and social risks.
“This congress is the first initiative to give space for informal economy workers to discuss the association’s statute and elect leadership that will continue to serve the association and informal economy workers. For a long time, they have felt marginalized and very vulnerable to economic and social risks when economic situations occur. These are the things we need an association organization for, so that everyone can raise their voice in the association to bring aspirations to negotiate with the Government.” said KSTL’s Almeiro Vila Nova, (25/05/26).
He stated that there were 110 participants in the congress, with delegates coming from the municipalities of Dili, Aileu, Ermera, and Liquiçá. The workers come from various sectors, such as street vending, running kiosks, farming, selling coconuts, and other activities.
“Data shows that the informal sector in Timor-Leste is very large. According to the ILO Labor Force Survey 2021, the informal sector accounted for 76%. In 2026, that number rose to 82%, while the formal sector is only 18%. This large informal sector isn’t a challenge or obstacle, but an opportunity for us to empower them so that their businesses can grow and contribute to economic development in our country.”
The national congress received maximum support from the ILO, which not only supported the congress but also the program to organize informal worker groups in the municipalities of Dili and Aileu. The two-day activity spent $6,500 to meet the congress’s needs.
Reporting: Trainees Juliana and Leozalia
Photo: Trainee Leozalia