Dili – East Timor, where women hold 24 per cent of Constituent Assembly seats, joined the world today in celebration of International Women's Day during a ceremony held in Dili attended by UN Transitional Administrator Sergio Vieira de Mello, NGO representatives and diplomats.

Speaking at the ceremony, Vieira de Mello addressed the important role East Timorese women played during the territory's struggle for independence, as well as UNTAET's efforts to encourage East Timorese women to take part in the process of national development.

"The results of your dedication speak for themselves: a 24 per cent representation in the Constituent Assembly, the second highest in the Asia-Pacific region, which has only a 12 per cent average of women in elected parliaments," the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative said. "This has ensured a voice for women in shaping your country's Constitution."

Other changes over the last two years in the participation of women in decision-making and public life include the appointment of women as District Administrators, ministers (Justice and Finance) and Advisors to the Chief Minister (Human Rights and Promotion of Equality). While the Public Administration has not yet reached the minimum 30 per cent representation established target, the national police force and border control have exceeded it, and the East Timor Defence Force is now beginning to recruit its first women.

The ceremony was organised by the East Timor Women's Network in conjunction with the Second Transitional Government's Office for the Promotion of Equality.

Maria Domingas Fernandes, the Advisor to Chief Minister Marm Alkatiri for the Promotion of Equality, is observing the 46th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in New York.