Dili, Timor-Leste — Good Neighbors has officially inaugurated its Timor-Leste Country Office, marking an important milestone as the organization expands its mission of “Empowering People, Transforming Communities” to its 52nd program country.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Dili, brought together government officials, development partners, community leaders, and representatives from civil society. The event marked the beginning of a new partnership dedicated to supporting children, families, and communities across Timor-Leste.
During the inauguration ceremony, Mr. Dong Chul Park, Country Director of Good Neighbors Timor-Leste, emphasized the importance of the organization’s presence in the country and its commitment to regional cooperation.
This historic achievement opens a new chapter of regional cooperation and prosperity. By establishing Good Neighbors Timor-Leste, we are not only expanding our global network but also strengthening our commitment to the Southeast Asian community, ensuring that Timor-Leste is supported by our regional expertise and solidarity..
His remarks highlighted the shared vision of working together with communities and partners to promote inclusive development and long-term change.
Timor-Leste is one of the youngest nations in Southeast Asia and home to a vibrant and growing population. Nearly 60% of its people are under the age of 25, reflecting both the energy and potential of the country’s future generation.
At the same time, many communities continue to face challenges related to education, health, and access to basic services. Nearly half of the population lives below the national poverty line, and many families in rural areas still struggle to access essential resources needed for daily life.
Timor-Leste’s recent entry as the 11th member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) also opens new opportunities for regional cooperation and development. As the country continues to grow, partnerships that support communities and strengthen local capacity will play an important role in shaping a more inclusive future.
While Timor-Leste has made meaningful progress over the years, many communities continue to face challenges that affect everyday life.
In the education sector, some schools lack sufficient learning materials and facilities, particularly in rural areas. Improving access to quality education remains essential to helping children develop the knowledge and skills they need for the future.
Health challenges also remain a concern for many families. Chronic malnutrition affects a significant number of children under the age of five, while diseases such as tuberculosis continue to place pressure on public health systems.
Access to clean water and sanitation is another important issue. Currently, only about 39% of the population has access to improved sanitation, leaving many communities vulnerable to preventable health risks.
At the same time, the country’s growing youth population highlights the importance of creating opportunities for education, skills development, and meaningful livelihoods.
In Timor-Leste, Good Neighbors will implement integrated community development programs that not only address the needs of children and families, but also empower communities to lead their own development.
Key focus areas include:
Education – Strengthening learning environments so children can reach their full potential
Health – Supporting communities in improving health practices and access to essential services
Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) – Promoting safe and sustainable water and sanitation solutions
Livelihoods and Economic Development – Equipping families with skills and opportunities to build stable incomes
Through these initiatives, Good Neighbors works hand in hand with communities to develop sustainable, locally driven solutions that improve quality of life.
By placing community participation at the center, the organization ensures that people are not just beneficiaries, but active partners—empowered to shape their own future and contribute to lasting change.
Together with local partners and communities, Good Neighbors looks forward to supporting a future filled with opportunity, resilience, and hope.
Good Neighbors is an international humanitarian and development organization founded in 1991, working in over 50 countries to make the world a place without hunger and where people live in harmony. Engaging with over 200 communities globally, we empower people and transform communities through social and economic development initiatives. Good Neighbors has General Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN ECOSOC) since 1996.
For further information, please contact Good Neighbors Global Partnership Center.
To make your donation process easier,
We’ll guide you to the Good Neighbors donation site for your region.
