UNMIT is an entirely new mission for Timor Leste. It was established on August 25th this year by the UN Security Council, and its full mandate is spelled out in Security Council Resolution 1704.

UNMIT's job is about stability, national reconciliation, and democratic governance for Timor Leste. It will work to strengthen key institutions, it will facilitate relief and recovery, and it will aid justice and reconciliation. All aspects of the 2007 elections will be supported, including technical and logistical support, plus verification and advice on electoral policy.

Restoring public security is an UNMIT priority. At full strength it will include some 1,608 UN Police (UNPol) as well as 34 military liaison and staff officers. UNPol will provide support to the Timorese police force (PNTL) while it is being reconstituted, plus provide interim law enforcement. As a first step screening for officers returning to the force has begun. Already the first Timorese police have been able to return to work on the streets of Dili.

Among UNMIT's other priorities is assisting the Office of the Prosecutor General in resuming investigative functions of the former Serious Crimes Unit – the aim being to complete investigations into the serious human rights violations of 1999.

What's in a name? UNMIT is an abbreviation for the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor Leste. The word "Integrated" is important, as in addition to playing a 'political good offices' role, UNMIT will "integrate" the work of all UN agencies in Timor Leste to maximize efficiency and impact.

UNMIT's top post is that of Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Timor Leste. Atul Khare was appointed as SRSG in December 2006.

UNMIT is Timor Leste's fifth UN mission since 1999, and the third since independence in May of 2002. Each of the five UN missions since 1999 has had a distinct purpose:
The UN Mission in East Timor (UNAMET, June 1999 – October 1999) paved the way for the popular consultation on autonomy.
The UN Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET, October 1999 – May 2002) administered the territory during the transition period.
The UN Mission in Support of East Timor (UNMISET, May 2002 – May 2005) provided assistance in the immediate post-independence period.
The UN Office in Timor Leste (UNOTIL, May 2005 – August 2006) supported key state institutions to strengthen democratic governance and help further build peace.

UNMIT falls under the UN's Department of Peacekeeping Operations. Its mandate initially is for six months, with renewals decided by members of the UN Security Council. UNMIT is paid for by UN member state contributions, not by donor funds. It has a zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse.

For additional information, please contact:
Allison Cooper, Spokesperson/OIC, Public Information Office, UNMIT; +670 723 0453 or Donna Cusumano, Public Information Officer at +670 723 0749