Impact Area
Gender Equality
Services
Photography
Timor-Leste has one of the highest population growth rates in the world, with women facing significant social and economic challenges. Many women receive less education than men, hold few leadership positions, and take on the majority of unpaid household labor. High unemployment rates further limit opportunities, and gender-based violence remains a major concern, with almost 40% of women experiencing violence, mostly from partners. While women have constitutional rights to protection, legal systems often fail to uphold them, particularly in rural areas where awareness and access to justice are limited.
The International Women’s Development Agency (IWDA) is committed to changing this reality. Since its founding in 1985, IWDA has worked globally to promote gender equality and empower women to lead. In Timor-Leste, IWDA partners with local feminist organisations to nurture women leaders, advocate for their rights, and provide economic empowerment opportunities. Design by Nature’s Creative Director and Photographer Anna Carlile traveled to Timor-Leste with IWDA to document the stories of women involved in this transformative change. Her compelling images capture the resilience, strength, and determination of Timorese women.
