Dili, April 20, 2025 (Lusa) - The Mahein Foundation believes that Timor-Leste's political system continues to be dominated by informal elite networks that undermine meritocracy and exclude youth, which can lead to social and political instability.
In an article released this month, the Timorese non-governmental organisation said power is being exercised through "personal connections, traditional socio-cultural hierarchies, historical credentials of resistance and systems of clientelism".
"The "status quo" has led to widespread disillusionment among young Timorese due to systemic nepotism in employment and education and a growing distance between citizens and political decision-makers," the Mahein Foundation (FM) said.
For this reason, the non-governmental organisation urged Timorese leaders to "implement the necessary reforms", including political succession, improve living conditions, strengthen the rule of law, and avoid social and political instability.
"Today, the risks are higher than ever, given Timor-Leste's greater wealth and the desperation of many citizens," the foundation said.
More than 70% of Timor-Leste's 1.3 million population is under the age of 35, and, according to United Nations data, more than 30% of young people are unemployed.
"Opportunities in Timor-Leste depend on family and political connections, rather than skills and qualifications" and more and more young Timorese are looking for work abroad, the Mahein Foundation pointed out.
This reality, according to the organisation, reflects an economic need, but also a lack of confidence.
"When jobs, scholarships and contracts are systematically distributed among elite networks, many see emigration as the only possible way to achieve prosperity," says the foundation.
According to FM, nepotism and informality are ingrained in the most basic administrative processes, and the lack of accountability for corruption reinforces the perception of impunity and that the state only serves the privileged.
"As the older generation approaches retirement, their failure to cultivate new leadership puts the country at risk of a dangerous power vacuum," which is compounded by an “alienated and poorly educated” youth population, it warned.
According to the non-governmental organisation, an example of this is that 23 years after the restoration of independence, Timor-Leste continues to "depend on international advisors for many formal tasks".
Considering that leadership development is "stagnating", the Mahein Foundation said that Timor-Leste is suffering a paradox, with "an abundance of politicians, but a shortage of true leaders".
"Timor-Leste is at a crossroads. The elites can choose to facilitate gradual reforms or face growing demands from an increasingly frustrated young generation. The choice will determine the stability and democratic future of the country," the Mahein Foundation concluded.
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