Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste is one of the youngest nations and among the poorest in Asia, with a turbulent past of colonial domination, foreign occupation and violent conflict.

Timor-Leste gained independence in 2002 after two and a half years under the mandate of the United Nations. This followed 425 years of Portuguese colonial rule. Nine days after their departure the Indonesians invaded and occupied the country for 24 years.

The long struggle towards independence has left a legacy of bloodshed, violence and deep mistrust between and within groups but most significantly between the Timorese people and their authorities.