Dili, August 25, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The National Director of Public Relations, together with SEI’s technical team, participated in a group discussion with an external consultant at the office of Plan International Timor-Leste. This discussion activity was reported by Média Democracia through SEI’s page.
The National Director of Public Relations, Filomena Babo Martins, stated that the objective of this group discussion was to gather information regarding the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of stakeholders about the rights of people with disabilities (PwD) and people from diverse groups (LGBTQI+).
“We support and are sensitive to their rights, to understand which programs have already been implemented to further support the rights of PwD and LGBTQI+, including access to public services, employment opportunities, or other economic development activities. The aim is also to explore existing laws and policies that support and are responsive to the rights of PwD and LGBTQI+,” said Filomena Babo Martins.
The Director further explained that the discussion also aimed to explore the limitations/obstacles and the availability of resources for program implementation related to the fulfillment of the rights of PwD and LGBTQI+, as well as to understand the support and supervision provided by relevant ministries to promote these rights.
“Plan International, in collaboration with co-applicants AHDMTL (Asosiasaun Halibur Defisiénsia Matan Timor-Leste) and Arcoiris Timor-Leste (ATL), with support from the European Union (EU), is implementing the People with Disabilities and People with Diversity Project (LGBTQI+ community),” she added.
According to the Director, the overall objective of this project is to support people with disabilities and diverse groups (LGBTQI+), particularly young women across all diversities, targeting 12 villages in the municipalities of Ainaro, Dili, and Ermera, in order to promote action and leadership in advancing their human rights, especially social and economic rights.
Meanwhile, through this group discussion, the external consultant will apply a structured and systematic approach to ensure that the interviews are conducted in a professional and comprehensive manner.
She further explained that, with the contribution of stakeholders including SEI, this process will help establish a strong foundation for the success of the project and contribute to building an inclusive society in Timor-Leste that recognizes both persons with disabilities and the LGBTQI+ community.
Reporter: Nelfiano
Photo: Media SEI