Timor-Leste: CRITICAL ISSUES FOR CHILDREN AND WOMEN

Foto: © UNICEF/NYHQ1999-0964/Holmes

"Timor-Leste with half of its population under age 18 still faces multiple challenges. Humanitarian needs were of concern after the April-May 2006 crisis, which resulted in the destruction of 6,000 homes and was followed by the displacement of over 100,000 people. In 2008, the number of camps for internally displaced persons is decreasing as the Government is supporting their return and reintegration. Despite this recent positive development, the overall situation remains fragile. Civil unrest and natural disasters are among periodic challenges. Hazards increasingly impact the districts by gradually eroding the coping mechanisms of many. Timor-Leste has the highest malnutrition prevalence in the region, and the situation is deteriorating: 49 per cent of all children under age five are underweight, 54 per cent are stunted and 25 per cent are wasted. Children are at particular risk of violence, abuse and exploitation. Socio-economic factors constrain the protective capacities of parents and communities." (UNICEF, 2009)

Ref.: UNICEF | ASIA AND THE PACIFIC TIMOR-LESTE: EMERGENCY SUMMARY