Violence against children in Timor-Leste and Consequences on Adult Health and Exposure to Adversity Policy Brief

Commissioned by the Australian Government’s Nabilan Program, Equality Institute conducted a secondary analysis of baseline survey data on violence against children (VAC) in Timor-Leste and its long-term impacts. The study revealed that VAC is widespread and strongly linked to adult health outcomes and later experiences or perpetration of intimate partner violence, underscoring the urgent need for integrated prevention strategies.

This policy brief translates these research findings into actionable steps for policymakers, donors, and practitioners. It highlights the need to address VAC not only as a child protection issue but also as a driver of poor health outcomes and future violence in adulthood.

The brief sets out evidence of the links between childhood trauma, intimate partner violence, and intergenerational cycles of harm. It calls for integrated approaches to prevention that connect efforts to end both VAC and violence against women, recognising their shared roots and impacts.

Clear recommendations are provided for government and development partners, including investing in early prevention, strengthening child protection systems, and embedding VAC prevention within broader national strategies to end violence. Available in English and Tetun, the policy brief serves as a roadmap for creating safer, more equitable futures for children in Timor-Leste.