The work in East Timor is being done under Baroness Caroline Cox's leadership with local on the ground partners. This is the work that HART-US wants to leverage support for and to assist in bringing awareness to through its US partners.

Background

On May 20th 2002 Timor-Leste became the world’s newest nation, following a three-year United Nations-led transition period, 24 years of brutal Indonesian occupation and 450 years of Portuguese colonial rule.

However, independence was achieved at a cost. A devastated infrastructure followed the conflict, whilst political instability hindered reconstruction of the physical environment, development of the economy, employment, health care and other essential services; rending Timor-Leste Asia’s poorest nation and one of the world’s least developed countries.

Health care and nutrition are primary concerns. Malnutrition is widespread, with high rates of infant and child mortality. During the Indonesian dominance, agriculture in Timor suffered greatly through deliberate importation of many basic, foods at cheaper rates.

The WFP (World Food Programme) in 2006 stated that:

• Approximately 20% (213,000) of the population is food insecure

• A further 23% (244,000) is highly vulnerable to becoming food insecure

• About 46% of children under 5 are stunted or too short for their age

• 57% of under 5s are severely underweight

In addition to this, the need for aid is intensified due to many aid organizations leaving the area as a result of security deterioration. Aid not only saves lives and alleviates suffering; it also helps to preserve some social stability which is a prerequisite for democracy and security.