Fostering Youth Civic Engagement for an Inclusive Democracy

UNDP Supports the National Parliament of Timor-Leste on the 3rd Edition of Parlamento Jovem

August 23, 2024

a group of people in a room — Students participating in Parlamento dos Jovens '24

Carolina Silva/UNDP Timor-Leste

Dili, August 23, 2024 – UNDP Timor-Leste proudly supported the National Parliament of Timor-Leste in the preparation and execution of the third edition of Parlamento dos Jovens (Youth Parliament), held on August 22-23, 2024. This event, which focused on the theme "Youth and Technologies of Information and Communication", marked a significant step in enhancing youth participation and fostering democratic engagement in Timor-Leste.

a group of people sitting at a table — Deputy António Verdial leading one of the discussion groups

Carolina Silva/UNDP Timor-Leste

Empowering Youth through Co-Creation

In the lead-up to the Youth Parliament, UNDP's Youth Conversations Project organized a Co-Creation Session. Over 40 students took part in a dynamic training that covered parliamentary processes, policy analysis, and leadership development. They were able to discuss and develop solutions related to "Youth and Technologies of Information and Communication." The collaboration helped prepare the students for the debates and decision-making processes they would encounter during Parlamento dos Jovens.

a group of people standing around a table — Deputy António Verdial on the co-creation session with Youth

Carolina Silva/UNDP Timor-Leste

Supporting Parlamento dos Jovens

On August 22nd and 23rd, the Parlamento dos Jovens (Youth Parliament) event provided an invaluable opportunity for 40 secondary school students from Dili to step into the roles of parliamentarians, engaging in debates and decision-making processes. Over the course of two days, students discussed and approved recommendations, simulating the parliamentary process and deepening their understanding of democratic governance. The event was supported by Deputy Ms. Cedelizia Faria dos Santos and Mr. António Verdial de Sousa Gama, the technical team from the National Parliament and UNDP Parliament Project team.

The event was also enhanced by the presence of the Demokrasia Bis, UNDP's Mobile Citizens Lab. This innovative tool was on-site to showcase its role in promoting civic engagement and amplifying youth voices. The bus provided a platform for students to engage in discussions about democratic participation and offered a glimpse into future activities aimed at bridging the gap between youth and policymakers.

a group of people standing in a room — Deputy Antonio Verdial, after the plenary session, with students who participated in Parlamento dos Jovens '24

Carolina Silva/UNDP Timor-Leste

Driving Change

Deputy António Verdial de Sousa Gama expressed his support towards the work being developed by Demokrasia Bis - Mobile Citizens Lab in fostering youth engagement and highlighted his appreciation for UNDP's ongoing support, emphasizing "As a member of the Parliament, I am calling on the Government to continue building cooperation with the international development partners, especially with UNDP, to capacitate young Timorese across all entirety of the country".

This collaborative effort underscores UNDP's commitment to strengthening democratic governance and promoting inclusive participation. By empowering youth and facilitating their engagement in democratic processes, UNDP is contributing to a sustainable development and future of Timor-Leste, where every voice is heard.