Timor-Leste Government and UNDP Partner to Expand One-Stop Service Centers Nationwide
On June 24, 2025, the Government of Timor-Leste and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand Balkaun Úniku, or One-Stop Service Centers, across all municipalities, including the Special Administrative Region of Oecusse-Ambeno. This initiative is a key part of the government’s broader decentralization policy, aimed at strengthening local governance and making essential public services more accessible to citizens nationwide.
The One-Stop Service Centers are designed to simplify how people access government services by bringing multiple services under one roof. This approach reduces the need for citizens to travel long distances or navigate complex administrative procedures, ultimately saving time and minimizing delays. By streamlining service delivery, the centers help ensure that public services are more efficient, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the community.
Under the terms of the MoU, UNDP will provide both technical expertise and infrastructure support to develop and operationalize these centers, especially in municipalities where facilities are still under construction or have yet to begin. This partnership reflects a shared commitment between the government and UNDP to improve public service delivery and promote decentralization, bringing government services closer to the people.
The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of State Administration office in Dili and was attended by Minister Tomás do Rosário Cabral and UNDP Resident Representative Katyna Argueta, along with senior officials from both organizations. Their presence highlighted the importance of this collaboration and the mutual goal of creating a public service system that is accountable, transparent, and accessible to all citizens.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in Timor-Leste’s efforts to enhance local governance and improve the quality of life for its people by ensuring that essential services are delivered efficiently and equitably across the country. For more details, visit the official announcement at TATOLI Agência Noticiosa de Timor-Leste.