9–11 June 2026, Indonesia – The Cruz Vermelha de Timor-Leste (CVTL) strengthened its emergency preparedness and response capacity by participating in the Regional Workshop on Restoring Family Links (RFL) in Emergencies, held in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Representing CVTL at the workshop were Mr. Luis Pereira, Coordinator of the CVTL Lautém Branch, and Ms. Martina Mendonça, Coordinator of the CVTL Díli Branch. The event brought together representatives from National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies across the region to enhance knowledge, technical skills, and coordination mechanisms related to Restoring Family Links (RFL) during emergencies.
Over the course of three days, participants explored RFL principles, operational procedures, and best practices through technical presentations, case studies, practical simulations, and peer-to-peer learning. The workshop focused on preventing family separation, tracing missing persons, and restoring contact between family members who become separated as a result of disasters, conflicts, migration, or other humanitarian emergencies.
“Participating in this workshop has strengthened our understanding of Restoring Family Links and highlighted the importance of regional cooperation during emergencies. The practical knowledge and tools we gained will help CVTL respond more effectively to cases of family separation in Timor-Leste,” said Mr. Luis Pereira.
Mrs. Martina Mendonça emphasized the humanitarian importance of RFL services, noting that disasters and crises often leave families uncertain about the safety and whereabouts of their loved ones. “When emergencies occur, families often experience distress and uncertainty when they lose contact with one another. This training has enhanced our confidence and capacity to provide timely, effective, and dignified humanitarian support to affected families,” she said.
At the conclusion of the workshop, the CVTL delegation expressed its appreciation to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) for organizing and supporting the event, as well as for their continued technical guidance and commitment to strengthening the capacity of National Societies across the region.
The workshop was organized and financially supported by the ICRC as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the preparedness, coordination, and effectiveness of Restoring Family Links services among National Societies, including PMI and CVTL.
CVTL remains committed to strengthening its Restoring Family Links services, enhancing emergency preparedness, and working closely with the ICRC and other Movement partners to ensure that families separated by emergencies can be safely reconnected with dignity, humanity, and respect.
