Timor-Leste Digitizes "Chega!" Report for Lasting Peace

Timor-Leste Advances Reconciliation by Digitalizing Truth Commission Archives

Timor-Leste is undertaking a significant project to digitize the archives of its Commission for Reception, Truth and Reconciliation (CAVR), a crucial step in preserving national memory and promoting peacebuilding. The CAVR's extensive 2,800-page report, "Chega!", documented human rights violations between 1974 and 1999, providing a vital historical account. This digitalization effort aims to make these historical records more accessible for future generations.

The initiative, supported by UNESCO and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), is part of a larger project focused on "Digitalization of Chega National Centre for Conflict Reconciliation and Peacebuilding in Timor-Leste (History and Peace Education)." This project not only involves digitizing the archives but also establishing professional archive and library management systems, strengthening history and peace education, and fostering regional knowledge exchange. The ongoing work culminated in an International Conference on Truth, Memory and Justice for Peacebuilding and Reconciliation in Dili in mid-July, which brought together practitioners and experts from across the region.

The conference participants adopted recommendations emphasizing stronger legal protection for truth commission archives, survivor-centered reparations, and integrating truth commission findings into education. Timor-Leste’s Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice, Virgílio da Silva Guterres, highlighted that the responsibility for implementing the "Chega!" report's 204 recommendations rests with all state institutions and political leaders. Source: unesco.org

Why It Matters

This endeavor directly supports peacebuilding and reconciliation by ensuring that the difficult truths of the past are not forgotten, fostering accountability, and aiding in national healing. By preserving and disseminating the findings of the CAVR, Timor-Leste reinforces its commitment to human rights and builds a foundation for a more peaceful future, emphasizing how crucial peace negotiations reconciliation are for lasting stability. Making these records accessible can also educate new generations on the importance of non-violence and human rights, contributing to long-term conflict prevention.

Carry It Forward

Explore Global Truth Commissions:

Research other truth and reconciliation commissions around the world, like those in South Africa or Canada, to understand different approaches to national healing and the role of documentation in promoting peace and justice.

Take the Next Step

Ready to go beyond reading? Volunteer, find your voting resources, try the Peace Tools, or shop sustainable products and support the mission.

Enjoyed today’s briefing? Subscribe for email updates at the bottom of this page, and share what you’re doing for peace with #peaceisactive.