Timor‑Leste Launches the Gender Equality Seal to Strengthen Inclusive Public Institutions

Timor‑Leste has taken an important step toward more inclusive and accountable governance by launching the Gender Equality Seal for Public Institutions, a globally recognized framework that helps public institutions embed gender equality into their policies, systems, and everyday practices.

On 26 February 2026, the Government of Timor‑Leste officially launched the Seal and initiated its implementation in three key institutions: the Court of Appeal, the Ministry of Finance, and the Public Service Commission. The event, held in Dili, brought together senior national authorities and international partners, marking the start of a transformative process to strengthen gender‑responsive governance across the public sector.

The Gender Equality Seal is being implemented through the Pro PALOP‑TL Programme, co‑funded by the European Union and implemented by the Secretary of State for Equality and UNDP. With this milestone, Timor‑Leste joins a growing group of countries using institutional standards and measurable benchmarks to advance equality, transparency, and accountability in public administration.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Iotam Lerer, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Timor‑Leste, underscored the transformative potential of the initiative:

“The Gender Equality Seal is more than a certification; it is a transformative tool to build stronger, more inclusive public institutions in Timor‑Leste.”

The launch also marked the beginning of a two‑day technical programme, during which representatives from the three institutions explored the Seal’s methodology in depth. Sessions covered the certification process, dimensions, standards, and benchmarks, as well as practical guidance on integrating gender perspectives into planning, budgeting, and institutional management. Participants also engaged in discussions on EQUANOMICS and gender‑responsive public financial management, helping translate national and international commitments into concrete institutional practices that shape how policies are designed and services delivered.

As emphasized by the Secretary of State for Equality:

“Gender equality is not an abstract ideal, but a practical and measurable benchmark that must guide our policies, our budgets, and our daily work.”

Beyond the launch, the three institutions have already taken concrete steps forward by establishing Gender Equality Committees. These committees will lead the next phases of implementation, ensuring that progress is systematic, measurable, and sustained over time. Their leadership is expected to catalyze broader reforms across government and serve as an example for other institutions in Timor‑Leste and the region.

The initiative also connects Timor‑Leste to a global community of practice committed to transforming public institutions through gender‑responsive standards. As UNDP Resident Representative Katyna Argueta highlighted:

“The Gender Equality Seal goes beyond words, turning commitment into measurable action and embedding equality into everyday institutional practice.”

Timor‑Leste’s commitment to the Gender Equality Seal marks a promising beginning. By investing in public institutions that reflect fairness, inclusion, and equal opportunity, the country is laying the foundation for governance systems that work for all citizens. Continued collaboration between national institutions, the Secretary of State for Equality, the European Union, and UNDP will be essential to sustaining this momentum and ensuring that gender equality becomes a lived reality across the public sector.

To learn more about how the Gender Equality Seal is strengthening public institutions around the world, explore UNDP’s global work on gender equality.