Freddy Gamage, a Catholic activist, received the Order of Timor-Leste, the country’s highest award, from President José Ramos Horta for his support of its right to self-determination. With his online publication Meepura, he promotes human rights at home.
The military-ruled Southeast Asian country clashes with one of the few countries in the region that is openly critical after its democracy was crushed. This is a challenge for ASEAN as well, as the bloc has failed so far to propose real solutions to Myanmar’s civil war. Now East Timor is reconsidering its bid to join the regional body.