Ainhoa Jaureguibeitia is Deputy Representative, UNICEF Timor-Leste.

A Closer Look at Child Labour in Timor-Leste—Challenges and Progress Towards Ending the Practice

Eight-year-old Ano from Dili in Timor-Leste, spends close to nine hours daily selling popcorn and other snacks in town.  The money from these sales helps supplement the income for his family of seven. @UNICEF Timor-Leste/2024/DMonemnasi
Abutu is the third child in a family of five, living in Dili.  Every day after school, Abutu joins his mother by the beach in Dili to sell. @UNICEF Timor-Leste/2024/DMonemnasi

Thankfully, the Government of Timor-Leste, United Nations agencies and civil society organizations all acknowledge the scope of child labour and its deep-rooted causes. This means that there is a great opportunity for different institutions in Timor-Leste to work together towards change.