This new agreement forms part of the European Union’s broader strategy to support integrated and coordinated interventions that improve nutrition and promote social inclusion. It targets some of Timor-Leste’s most vulnerable populations - pregnant and lactating women, children under five, and school-aged children - by improving access to nutritious food, quality healthcare, and effective social protection services. With a total EU contribution of EUR 10 million, this initiative is part of a wider EUR 12 million support package aligned with the IX Constitutional Government’s strategies in the areas of Nutrition and Social Inclusion. The programme will focus on strengthening human resource capacities, supporting national institutions, and engaging civil society organisations. It is expected to directly benefit approximately 150,000 people in rural communities across eight municipalities: Dili, Aileu, Ainaro, Covalima, Ermera, Lautem, Liquica, and Viqueque. 

“This collaboration goes beyond school nutrition, connecting to education, social protection, agriculture, and livelihoods,” said Jacqueline de Groot, WFP Representative in Timor-Leste, speaking on behalf of the three implementing UN agencies—WFP, ILO, and UNICEF—during the signing ceremony. “By supporting household nutrition and linking school feeding to local food production, we can improve diets, combat malnutrition, and empower communities. This partnership highlights collective action towards stronger systems that serve the most vulnerable, especially women and children, and help everyone lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.” 

Malnutrition remains a critical challenge in Timor-Leste, which has one of the highest rates of child stunting in the world. According to a 2020 EU-supported survey conducted by UNICEF and the Ministry of Health, 47.1% of children under five are stunted. In addition, 27 % of the population experiences acute food insecurity, posing a serious threat to the country's long-term socio-economic development. 

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Ambassador Fiedrich underlined the urgency of the situation: “It is critical that we effectively leverage all available resources and Working together to maximize the impact of our interventions and avoid duplication of efforts. While strategies and plans are essential, they must be translated into concrete actions on the ground”. 

The causes of maternal and child undernutrition in Timor-Leste are multi-dimensional, with root causes including poor dietary diversity, limited access to quality food, and a high burden of disease. Without urgent and sustained action, high levels of malnutrition will continue to undermine progress in poverty reduction, education, productivity, and overall human development. 

Despite these challenges, Timor-Leste has the foundations necessary for sustainable development. Today’s agreement marks a significant step forward in the shared commitment of the European Union and its partners to support the country’s efforts to build a healthier, more inclusive future for all its citizens.

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