The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste had a limited legal and policy framework for providing assistance to persons with disabilities, including victims of mines/ERW.

Several domestic laws and regulations also provided disability assistance, especially in the areas of employment, education, and social assistance.[1] Of note, the Statute of the National Liberation Combatants (Law 9/2009) outlined special consideration for veterans with disabilities, including free access to prosthetic services.

The Ministry of Social Solidarity (MSS) was the principle government body responsible for managing disability assistance within the state.[2]

In 2010, the MSS established the “National Strategy for Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR),” in line with the principles of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).[3] It did not explicitly provide protections or create institutions. The CBR strategy was supported by additional national policies in mental health, integrated community health services, and education.

Accessibility to buildings and vocational training for persons with disabilities were identified as key challenges.[4]

Timor-Leste has not ratified the CRPD.