Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, and Development Partners Launch Key Indicators Report on Demographic and Health Survey 2025–2026
Dili, Timor-Leste – 11 June 2026 – Today, the Government of Timor-Leste, led by the Ministry of Finance through the National Institute of Statistics of Timor-Leste, Public Institute (INETL, I.P.) in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), officially launched the Key Indicators Report of the Timor-Leste Demographic and Health Survey 2025–26 (TLDHS). This report provides vital, up-to-date data to drive evidence-based policy and decision-making and to track progress toward achieving national goals and priorities.
The survey results highlight national progress over the past decade, particularly in reproductive and maternal health: a). Total Fertility Rate (TFR): Declined from 4.2 children per woman in 2016 to 3.4 in 2025–26. b). Skilled Birth Attendance: The percentage of births assisted by skilled health workers increased dramatically from 60% in 2016 to 78% in 2025–26, showing that more women are opting for facility-based care with skilled assistance. c). Persistent Challenges: The report also reveals that more efforts are needed to address persistent challenges such as malnutrition, child health, and anemia among mothers.
In the occasion, Her Excellency Mrs. Santina J.R.F. Viegas Cardoso, Minister of Finance stated that “Reliable data is the foundation of good policy. It allows us to plan effectively, monitor our achievements, and measure the impact of programs that directly affect the well-being of the Timorese people.”
At the launching venue Mr. Florindo Pinto Gonzaga, Director General of the Ministry of Health also noted that “Reliable health data is the backbone of a resilient healthcare system. This evidence will allow us to accurately target our medical interventions, improve healthcare delivery at all levels, and ultimately save lives.”
Mr. Elias dos Santos Ferreira, President of INETL, I.P. said that “The release of this report is a testament to Timor-Leste’s growing capacity for strong statistical governance. It delivers high-quality data, empowering policymakers to design programs without leaving anyone behind.”
In addition, Ms. Navchaa Suren, UNFPA Representative in Timor-Leste, stating that “While this report presents statistical indicators, it is ultimately about people. The findings provide critical evidence to ensure that policies, investments, and resource allocations correctly respond to the needs of the population.”
The successful implementation of the Timor-Leste Demographic and Health Survey (TLDHS) 2025–26 was a joint effort led by INETL, I.P., the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Health, with support from development partners. The Government of Timor-Leste expresses its deep appreciation to: UNFPA, the Government of Australia (DFAT), the World Bank, UNICEF, and WFP.
Special recognition is also given to the DHS team at INETL, I.P., ICF Macro International, municipal authorities, field personnel, participating households, and the thousands of individuals who generously shared their time and provided valuable information.
The preliminary Key Indicators Report is now publicly available on the INETL, I.P. website. A comprehensive TLDHS 2025–26 report with additional indicators is expected to be released later this year.
