Publication

The briefing examines attempts by the young state of Timor-Leste to recognize and honor those who fought for its independence. While these efforts initially targeted on symbolic measures, the state’s increasing wealth means that they have increasingly focused on cash benefits. The government has deferred difficult decisions on who will qualify for these payments. It has done so because of the complexity of Timor-Leste’s 24-year resistance and fears that refusing benefits to claimants could create potential spoilers to the stability the country now enjoys.