Promoting Peace and Unity: The Peace Run in Timor-Leste

The Peace Run in Timor-Leste, held from February 6 to 10, 2023, was a significant event aimed at fostering peace and unity among the Timorese people. The run was organized at the invitation of H.E. Aniceto Lopes, the President of the Parliament, and featured various activities and engagements throughout the country. This blog post highlights the key moments and impact of the Peace Run in Timor-Leste.

Promoting Peace in Schools:

Collaborating with Mr. Armindo Maia, the Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports, the Peace Run team visited 13 schools in Ermera, Liquica, and Dili districts. Over four days, approximately 8,500 students actively participated in the events and activities organized as part of the Peace Run. The aim was to instill the values of peace, unity, and harmony among the younger generation, emphasizing the importance of tolerance and understanding.

Meeting with President José Manuel Ramos-Horta:

A significant highlight of the Peace Run was the meeting with President José Manuel Ramos-Horta, a Nobel Peace Prize recipient. The President graciously welcomed the Peace Run team at the Presidential Palace and participated in a special ceremony alongside students representing four nearby schools. This symbolic gathering showcased the commitment of Timor-Leste's leadership to promoting peace and building a harmonious society.

Community Engagement: Peace Run/Walk in Dili:

To involve the wider community in the pursuit of peace, a 5 km Peace Run/Walk was organized in the capital city of Dili. This event brought together people from diverse backgrounds, including locals and international participants. The run culminated at the Department of Youth and Sport compound, where participants celebrated their shared commitment to peace and unity.

Engaging with the United Nations:

On the final day of the Peace Run, the team was hosted by the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Funmi Balogun, at the UN compound in Timor-Leste. Over 70 staff members from sixteen UN agencies attended a presentation delivered by the Peace Run team. This provided an opportunity to exchange ideas, promote dialogue, and strengthen collaboration towards achieving lasting peace and development in the country.

The Peace Run in Timor-Leste served as a powerful platform to advocate for peace, unity, and understanding among the Timorese people. The engagement with schools, the meeting with President José Manuel Ramos-Horta, the community run/walk in Dili, and the interaction with the United Nations all contributed to fostering a sense of harmony and cooperation. The Peace Run left a lasting impact on the participants and the broader community, inspiring individuals to work together for a peaceful and prosperous future in Timor-Leste.