Indonesia and Timor-Leste strengthen cooperation on labour dispute resolution
DILI, Timor-Leste (ILO News) – Representatives of Timor-Leste’s government, employers and workers strengthened their skills in conflict management and mediation through a two-day training organized by the International Labour Organization (ILO), in collaboration with the Secretariat of State for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE) and Indonesia’s Ministry of Manpower.
Held in Dili from 21 to 22 October 2026, the training combined practical mediation exercises with an exchange of experiences between Indonesia and Timor-Leste on preventing and resolving labour disputes. The activity was conducted within the framework of South-South Cooperation between the two countries.
A total of 35 participants, including 18 women and 17 men, took part. They included 20 representatives from SEFOPE, 10 from the Timor-Leste Trade Union Confederation (KSTL) and five from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Timor-Leste (CCI-TL).
“Employee grievances and labour disputes affect costs and productivity, harming the interests of workers, employers and the economy. We need effective mechanisms to prevent and resolve disputes, as well as opportunities for social dialogue to address the challenges facing these mechanisms,” said Arun Kumar, ILO Collective Bargaining and Social Dialogue Specialist.
Representing SEFOPE at the opening session, Paulo Alves welcomed the opportunity to draw on Indonesia’s experience as Timor-Leste strengthens its labour dispute resolution system.
“Indonesia’s experience provides valuable lessons for Timor-Leste as we continue to strengthen our labour dispute resolution system. This training also supports our efforts to improve labour relations under the National Employment Strategy,” he said.
The training was facilitated by Arun Kumar and Anton Hardianto, Team Leader for Strengthening Arbitration, Conciliation and Ad Hoc Judges of the Industrial Relations Court at Indonesia’s Ministry of Manpower.
Anton shared Indonesia’s experience and practices in labour dispute resolution, while the ILO provided guidance on international principles, the role and professional conduct of mediators, and approaches to conflict management.
Belarmino da Cruz of SEFOPE’s Labour Relations Department presented Timor-Leste’s legal framework and procedures for settling labour disputes, as well as challenges in implementing existing mechanisms.
“Strengthening mediation is important to help workers and employers resolve disputes through dialogue. By improving mediators’ skills and procedures, we can provide more effective support to both parties,” he said.
Participants also took part in mediation simulations facilitated by Anton, practising active listening, communication and negotiation while helping parties identify concerns and reach mutually agreed solutions.
Zeferino Martins, a SEFOPE mediator from Manufahi Municipality, said the practical approach helped strengthen his understanding of mediation.
“The sessions were practical and interactive, particularly the mediation simulation. Learning from Indonesia’s experience and exchanging ideas with other participants helped me better understand how we can improve our approach to resolving labour disputes,” he said.
The training also provided a platform for employers and workers to discuss their roles in preventing disputes and strengthening workplace cooperation.
“Employers and workers depend on each other. By strengthening dialogue, mutual understanding and respect, we can prevent disputes and build more constructive working relationships,” said CCI-TL Vice President Júlio Fernandes.
KSTL President Almerio Vila-Nova also highlighted the importance of communication and mediation in managing workplace conflict.
“Workplace conflicts can arise from different interests and misunderstandings, but they can be managed through dialogue and effective communication. Mediation can help restore trust and strengthen cooperation between workers and employers,” he said.
The training concluded with participants identifying priorities for strengthening labour dispute resolution in Timor-Leste. These included clearer mediation regulations and guidelines, further training for mediators, stronger workplace dialogue and better coordination among institutions.
Participants also discussed reviewing labour law provisions on dispute prevention, mediation, conciliation and arbitration. These priorities are expected to contribute to further tripartite dialogue on labour law reform in 2027 and 2028.
By bringing together ILO expertise, Indonesia’s practical experience and Timor-Leste’s national context, the training supported efforts to strengthen mediation services and promote fair and constructive labour relations through South-South Cooperation.
The training was funded through the ILO’s Regular Budget Supplementary Account (RBSA) project, Preparing Timor-Leste’s workers and policymakers for just transition and the formal economy.
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