Assessing Vulnerabilities and Resilience in Border Communities in Timor-Leste Through the Human Security Approach in the Context of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic reversed development gains worldwide, increasing inequalities within and between countries. In Timor-Leste, remote border communities—already facing multiple, interconnected vulnerabilities—were particularly affected. Even before the pandemic, these communities struggled with limited access to essential services such as clean water, healthcare, and education. The closure of borders and severe travel restrictions disrupted daily life, cutting off cross-border trade—a key source of economic stability for many. As a result, livelihoods were strained, and access to basic necessities became even more challenging, underscoring the need for targeted, community-driven solutions to build resilience and support long-term recovery.​

The key objective of the programme is to develop and conduct human security assessments with the aim to: (i) better understand the specific needs and challenges faced by people in remote border and at-risk communities; (ii) strengthen partnerships and coordination among local and national stakeholders to prepare and respond to complex challenges; and (iii) create mechanisms to upstream local assessments and related priorities into national planning processes by policymakers and practitioners.

KEY MATERIALS
Programme Summary
Final Assessment Report
Policy Brief: Human Security of Border Communities in Covalima, Bobonaro and RAEOA, Timor-Leste