Judicial Reform in Timor-Leste: A Sustainable Path Amidst Problem Roots and Progress

Marito Maia

doi:10.47134/ijlj.v2i4.4091

Authors

Marito Maia Universidade Nacional Timor Lorosa’ e

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47134/ijlj.v2i4.4091

Keywords:

Judicial Reform, Access to Justice, Post-Conflict Challenges, Judicial, International Collaboration, Democracy Development

Abstract

Judicial reform in Timor Leste has played an important role in post-conflict recovery and the consolidation of democracy in the country. In the eyes of the world, particularly western nations and other Asian countries, since independence in 2002, Timor Leste has begun the process of establishing an independent and functioning judiciary. However, this journey has been challenging due to historical trauma, inadequate resources and a lack of trained legal professionals. The objective of this research is to critically explore and discuss judicial reform in Timor Leste, focusing on the progress that has been made, the challenges faced, and the long-term steps needed and expected to advance future development. The research method utilized a qualitative and quantitative approach i.e., interviews from varied respondent sources based on socio-legal exploratory study and a critical look at patterns and trends in addressing possibly future post-conflict challenges. Based on the research results from primary and secondary data, this paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the transformation of the judicial system, with an emphasis on the spectrum and role of international support and local capacity building. The spectrum and role of international support and local capacity building in its implementation is still in the process of developing a justice system that has not been implemented in a comprehensive and consistent manner. However, this support has involved various reform efforts in developmental sectors, including institutional capacity building, human resource development, access to justice, and the application of international best practices. The implementation of developing a justice system in the post-conflict challenges needs to be implemented and sustained and consistently applied through international collaboration for the sustainable benefit of a strong democracy, accessibility to justice, and directional development in Timor

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