Remembering the Indonesian Occupation in Timor-Leste

How is the Indonesian occupation of Timor-Leste (1975–1999) remembered, debated, and represented today? This discussion examines how survivor testimony, public narratives, memorial practices, and processes of reconciliation shape collective memory of the occupation, and how that memory continues to inform questions of national identity, historical responsibility, and Timor-Leste’s relationship with Indonesia.

Speaker: Gaudêncio Soares Souza, Director of External Relations, Communication and Advocacy at Centro Nacional Chega! I.P. Established in 2016, Centro Nacional Chega! works to preserve the memory of Timor-Leste’s past, promote human rights, and implement the recommendations of the Commission for Reception, Truth and Reconciliation (CAVR) and the Timor-Leste–Indonesia Commission of Truth and Friendship.