ABSTRACT
In Timor Leste, efforts to engage men in ending violence against women have been complicated by donor politics. The result is that despite good ideas and intentions, projects could not reach their maximum potential because of the lack of trust between donors and organisations, and the lack of coordination meant that efforts were scattered. The chapter also explores the challenges faced by women’s Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in supporting survivors of domestic violence, as well as urban Dili male masculinities which are influenced by the Indonesian military occupation. My interview with a western male volunteer uncovered an uncomfortable theme of male saviour mentality within the industry of men who are involved in stopping violence against women.
