05 July 2012
Timor-Leste Celebrates a Decade of Independence
Abstract
In the span of a decade, Timor-Leste has risen from a fragile state into a confident new player in the region. Over the years, the country has strived to develop the necessary democratic infrastructure and has made remarkable advances on many fronts. While Timor-Leste’s progress is commendable, many challenges still remain to be addressed, particularly in the areas of justice, defence and security, and economic development. A stable and peaceful Timor-Leste is a common interest shared by its citizens as well as neighbouring states in Southeast Asia. It is within this strategic context that the 2012 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections were held. This Report seeks to examine the state of nation building in Timor-Leste today and the significance of the 2012 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections for the country and Southeast Asia as a region.
Abstract
In the span of a decade, Timor-Leste has risen from a fragile state into a confident new player in the region. Over the years, the country has strived to develop the necessary democratic infrastructure and has made remarkable advances on many fronts. While Timor-Leste’s progress is commendable, many challenges still remain to be addressed, particularly in the areas of justice, defence and security, and economic development. A stable and peaceful Timor-Leste is a common interest shared by its citizens as well as neighbouring states in Southeast Asia. It is within this strategic context that the 2012 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections were held. This Report seeks to examine the state of nation building in Timor-Leste today and the significance of the 2012 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections for the country and Southeast Asia as a region.
