Dili, July 24, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The Secretary of State for Equality (SEI) delivered an intervention at the High-Level Political Forum on the 2025 Sustainable Development Goals, held at the United Nations conference hall in New York. This activity was accessed by Média Democracia through the official page on Wednesday.
The Secretary of State for Equality (SEI), Elvina Sousa Carvalho, stated that the political forum organized by UN Women focused on advancing intersectional rights and justice, particularly concerning women from historically marginalized communities facing discrimination based on occupation and access to decent work.
“At this forum, the Government of Timor-Leste was represented directly by the Secretary of State for Equality, sharing experiences of the struggles faced by women during Timor-Leste’s fight for independence and the building of a democracy based on principles of equality, dignity, and justice,” said Secretary of State Elvina Sousa Carvalho.
She further explained that through this struggle, the principles of equality were successfully written into Timor-Leste’s Constitution, aligned with international conventions such as CEDAW, the Beijing Platform for Action, UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“We see that true equality goes beyond legal recognition. It requires active efforts to eliminate the various forms of discrimination that women continue to face in their daily lives. Globally, women from rural communities, those working in informal and domestic sectors, and those affected by customary hierarchies continue to encounter numerous barriers,” stated the Secretary.
She affirmed that these barriers often prevent women from accessing opportunities such as land and property ownership, economic participation, healthcare, education, justice, and leadership positions, particularly at executive, municipal, and village levels.
“In Timor-Leste, we are committed to strengthening the protection of women’s rights through laws and ensuring their implementation, investing in education and awareness across all levels of society to challenge harmful social norms. We must ensure that no woman or vulnerable group is left behind, and that women’s programs are fully integrated into national development strategies, programs, plans, and budgeting processes,” she affirmed.
She emphasized that all nations must prioritize the issue of equality and involve women leaders, as their resilience stems from historical struggles. Marginalization and discrimination against women must no longer be tolerated. Women from all walks of life must be involved as agents of change to eliminate all forms of discrimination within society.
She reiterated that Timor-Leste remains committed and in solidarity to work together with all partners like UN agencies, civil society, and member states to advance intersectional justice. Challenges faced by women must be addressed through targeted and inclusive policies led by women and other vulnerable groups most impacted.
Reporting by: Nelfiano
Photo: SEI Media