Violence against children in Timor-Leste and Consequences on Adult Health and Exposure to Adversity Evidence Brief: Areas for Further Research

As part of the Australian Government’s Nabilan Program, Equality Institute analysed baseline survey data to examine violence against children (VAC) in Timor-Leste and its long-term impacts. The study confirmed that VAC is widespread and interconnected with adult experiences of violence and poor health outcomes. While providing vital insights, the research also highlighted key gaps in knowledge that must be addressed to strengthen prevention strategies.

This evidence brief outlines two priority areas for further investigation: resilience among children who have experienced abuse, and risk factors for child sexual abuse. Understanding why some children exposed to trauma do not go on to experience or perpetrate violence in adulthood is essential for breaking cycles of harm. Similarly, identifying risk factors across age and gender is critical to designing more effective, targeted prevention approaches.

By building evidence in these areas, Timor-Leste can develop interventions that are not only grounded in local realities but also informed by global learnings, creating pathways to safer, healthier futures for children.