Timor-Leste Government Directly Targeted in Corruption Assessment
Dili, Timor-Leste - A comprehensive corruption assessment has identified a range of priority areas that require immediate attention from the government to combat corruption and ensure transparency.
Assessment Findings
The assessment, conducted by an independent team, revealed that corruption is a significant barrier to development in Timor-Leste. Many government officials and institutions were found to be failing to provide reliable information or oversight, creating an environment conducive to corruption.
Recommendations
To address these issues, the team has developed a range of recommendations that directly target key government roles and institutions:
Improving Transparency
- Developing a freedom of information law to improve access to information
- Establishing an asset disclosure regime for government officials
- Introducing conflict of interest rules for public office holders
Strengthening Oversight Institutions
- Centralizing internal audit mechanisms to improve oversight and accountability
- Conducting regular corruption experience surveys to gauge public perceptions of corruption
- Preparing regular service delivery report cards to provide citizens with information on government performance
Factors Contributing to Corruption
The assessment identified several key factors that contribute to Timor-Leste’s corruption problems:
Lack of Transparency and Accountability
- A lack of transparency and accountability in government decision-making
- Weak oversight institutions and inadequate capacity for anti-corruption efforts
Limited Access to Information
- Limited access to information and a culture of secrecy
Call to Action
The government has been urged to take immediate action to address these issues and implement the recommendations outlined in the assessment. The international community is also being called upon to provide support and assistance to help Timor-Leste build its capacity to combat corruption.
“We urge the government to take immediate action to implement these recommendations and ensure transparency and accountability in all areas of public life,” said [Name], Head of the Corruption Assessment Team.
Full Report Available
The full report is available online at [website].