Timor-Leste
Timor-Leste is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, which pose significant threats to its fragile ecosystems and agriculture-dependent economy. Rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and increasing sea levels disrupt the country’s agricultural systems, which support over 70% of the population. These challenges exacerbate food insecurity and endanger coastal communities, making climate resilience an urgent national priority.
At IFSD, we conduct evidence-based research, policy advocacy, and collaborative action to address these multifaceted challenges. By combining local knowledge with global expertise, IFSD develops tailored solutions to strengthen climate resilience, improve natural resource management, and mitigate climate risks in Timor-Leste. By working alongside government agencies, local organisations, and international partners, IFSD is working to foster community-led strategies for managing natural resources, restoring ecosystems, and mitigating climate-related risks.
IFSD’s initiatives in Timor-Leste
- Strengthening Forest Governance and Ecosystem Restoration: IFSD is actively working to enhance forest management and improve land tenure systems in Timor-Leste. By promoting responsible governance, we strive to empower local communities to use natural resources sustainably. Our research-driven efforts focus on restoring degraded ecosystems, ensuring they can better withstand climate-related stresses while supporting biodiversity and livelihoods.
- Advancing Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM): Community engagement is central to IFSD’s approach in Timor-Leste. Through our CBNRM initiatives, we are designing and testing interventions to conserve watersheds and protect natural resources. We also assess the effectiveness of these community-led strategies to ensure they align with the country’s ecological and socio-economic needs.

- Loss and Damage Mitigation: In response to the escalating impacts of climate-induced loss and damage, IFSD is working closely with local partners, including our national partner RAEBIA to explore opportunities to build the country’s climate resilience. In partnership with IIED, IFSD is working on implementing the Resilience through Evidence and Action on Loss and Damage (REAL) project in Timor Leste.
Through these targeted initiatives, IFSD is supporting Timor-Leste in achieving a sustainable and resilient future while safeguarding its natural and cultural heritage.
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