Preparation of National Housing Policy (Completed)

The Government of Timor-Leste requested support for the preparation of a National Housing Policy, a priority activity included in the National Development Plan. The project was formulated as an SPPD and UNDP has approved the project at the end of January. Implementation started in April 2003. Housing is a serious problem in East Timor, particularly for the urban poor, and requires urgent intervention. A sound housing policy is a precondition for targeted and appropriate interventions in the housing sector. The complex situation in a post-disaster situation of Timor-Leste requires an appropriate housing policy and urban housing strategy, which are key elements of the project.

The project undertook a national housing survey through a consortium of NGOs providing a people’s perspective of the housing situation. Through a series of regional and national workshops consultations were held on housing issues leading to a draft housing policy and urban housing strategy. The final draft was discussed at a national workshop including high-ranking government officials and representatives of the civil society.

UN-Habitat had assisted the government in the preparation of a National Housing Policy, which is yet to be approved. Further assistance is provided to (a) increase the awareness of the importance of a national housing policy and (b) engage senior officials in a consultative process to finalise a revised document for approval by the Cabinet of Ministers.