Poster produced by women at Fokupers, illustrating their struggle. These stories are tiny fragments of the suffering endured by East Timorese women during Indonesia's 25-year occupation. While their first priority is counselling victims, a number of East Timorese organisations are addressing broader issues. Although many issues arise from the Indonesian occupation and its aftermath, others parallel those confronting women around the world. Schooling isn't free.
Most educational investment is made in boys.
To educate a girl is seen as spending money on her future husband's family. If girls are sent to school, it is usually for just a few years. Standards of teaching are low and learning is by rote. Higher education, the key to women accessing roles of influence, is even less accessible. Women's marginalisation is greater in rural areas.