Building Trust to Prevent Violence 

For more than a decade, the New Zealand-funded Community Security and Justice program has supported more responsive public service delivery and strengthened trust between communities and police to prevent violence and build resilience. It has transformed policing in Timor-Leste from a reactive, security-driven force to one that works with communities to prevent conflict and resolve disputes. Partnering with police, community leaders, and civil society, the program has expanded community police councils across more than 75 percent of the country, improved local coordination, and contributed to national reform. Backed by strong survey evidence, these efforts have strengthened trust in police, expanded access to justice, and enabled Timorese institutions and communities to lead in building safer, more resilient societies.