ABSTRACT
In the first part of Chapter 9, Timor-Leste, the political history of the country (also called East Timor) is recounted since its initial attempt at independence from Portugal in 1975, through Indonesia occupation, and then full independence in 2002. This account includes analysis of armed resistance against Indonesia, transition to sovereignty under United Nations tutelage, and Timor-Leste’s political life from independence through to the present. The latter part of the chapter begins with an examination of the country’s key political institutions and social groups, namely independence leaders (namely, Xanana Gusmao, Jose Ramos Horta, and Mari Alkatiri), the national parliament, political parties, and the Catholic Church. A section devoted to state-society relations and democracy follows which examines political developments and Timor-Leste’s ongoing democratization. A brief examination of the country’s economy and development follows noting the country’s many developmental challenges and dependence on oil reserves. The chapter closes with an overview of Timor-Leste’s foreign policy including its relations with regional powers, the United Nations Australia, ASEAN, and China. A map of Timor-Leste is included for geographical reference.
