Local Governance in Timor-Leste

Abstract

The Asia Foundation has been implementing programs aimed at strengthening local governance in Timor-Leste since 2009. These programs endeavor to increase the capacity of local leaders and help build ties between community members, local leadership, and municipal and national level government. The Foundation’s local governance programs recognize the importance of community knowledge and expertise in addressing local needs, including peace and security, and adopt a “bottom-up” approach to foster participation and empower communities in the process of their own development.