MPIE Holds Dissemination Seminar on the Implementation of the Social Security System, Seniority Promotion, and Mandatory Retirement Reform

Dili, 23 October 2025 — The Ministry of Planning, Investment and Strategic (MPIE) held a dissemination seminar on the implementation of the Social Security System, Seniority Promotion, and Mandatory Retirement Reform.
The seminar was officially opened by H.E. Eng. Gastão Francisco de Sousa, Minister of MPIE, and took place at the Laline Larigutu–CNE Hall in Dili.

Social Security: A Fundamental Human Right

Social Security is a fundamental human right enshrined in Article 56 of the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, which states that “all citizens have the right to social security and social assistance.”
The 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, in Article 22, reinforces this principle, affirming that everyone, as a member of society, has the right to social security and to the realization of economic, social, and cultural rights indispensable for dignity and personal development.

The Social Security System aims to ensure citizens’ fundamental rights, guarantee an adequate standard of living, and protect individuals throughout the life cycle — from maternity to survivors’ pensions for the families of deceased beneficiaries.
It also helps prevent poverty, maintain purchasing power, and support economic activity, ensuring dignified living conditions for all.

Seniority Promotion and Mandatory Reform

Seniority Promotion in the public service recognizes long-term service and motivates stable and continuous performance.
The Mandatory Reform within the Social Security System includes:

• Revision of contributory and non-contributory regimes;

• Improvement of pension, subsidy, and social benefit systems;

• Integration of social services with administrative and budgetary systems;

• Strengthening community-based approaches to serve vulnerable populations.

The implementation of these reforms offers hope to the Timorese people for greater economic security, social justice, and dignity in the future.

Purpose of the Dissemination

The dissemination aims to strengthen the understanding of MPIE staff and affiliated institutions regarding their rights and benefits under the Social Security System.
It provides updated information on promotion conditions, mandatory retirement, and pension access, reducing misinterpretations and building staff confidence in the system.
Information on seniority promotion also motivates civil servants to continue serving with dedication and to plan their careers and retirement effectively.

Participants

The event gathered senior officials from institutions under the MPIE, directors, department heads, national and international advisers, and MPIE staff, including representatives from the Public Service Commission.
Guest speakers came from the Ministry of Social Solidarity and Inclusion, particularly from the Social Security Department, and from the Public Service Commission.

Conclusion

The dissemination of the Social Security System’s implementation is not merely an information-sharing event but also an exercise in public communication aimed at ensuring rights, justice, and security for state employees — contributing to social development and national stability.