TIMOR-LESTE: Members of PNTL Complete Domestic Violence Investigations Course
Independente on 14 June reported that twenty-one members of the National Police of Timor Leste (PNTL) have graduated from a training course on domestic violence investigation. The commander of the Vulnerable Persons Unit, Chief Inspector Daria da Costa, said that this 2-week course was supported by the government via the Secretary of State for the Promotion of Equality (SEPI), UNFPA, the MDG Achievement Goals Fund and the Timor-Leste Police Development Programme. SEPI, together with UNFPA have been preparing modules and training manuals on gender-based violence and domestic violence investigations since 2005. This training manual will be the guide for the institution of the PNTL.
TIMOR-LESTE: UNFPA Supports Fokupers with Car Donation
Diario Nacional on 14 June reported that UNFPA donated a Hilux car to help Fokupers run their ‘Uma Mahon’ shelters for victims of domestic violence. UNFPA Representative Mr. Pornchai Suchitta said that this car would facilitate Fokupers to carry out their work and support women and children who are victims of gender-based violence (GBV). Director Maria Barreto gave thanks to UNFPA and said that this car would facilitate Fokupers to carry out their programmes and give assistance to victims of GBV.
LAO PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC: Country to Review, Revise Development Strategies
Xinhua on 14 June reported that Laos, in partnership with various UN agencies, has begun a major review of the implementation of the ICPD Programme of Action. UNFPA Representative Esther Muia is quoted saying, "The ICPD Programme of Action has initiated and contributed to major achievements in all areas of population and development in Laos. Its implementation is crucial to the achievement of Millennium Development Goals" but noted that there are areas where, "we can increase our efforts to accelerate the achievements of targets." Read in English: Xinhua