National Human Development Report Ukan rasik a'an - East Timor - the way ahead East Timor launches a tool to help the new government design effective policies for development

On the eve of East Timor's independence, UNDP has produced a report which will be invaluable for the country's new government.

The report, called the National Human Development Report for East Timor, Ukun rasik a'an, the way ahead, contains vital data and statistics on the standard of living faced by ordinary people across the country.

Among some of the startling things revealed by the report include the fact that East Timor is the poorest nation in Asia, more than 40 percent of people in East Timor live on less than 55 cents per day, life expectancy is as low as 57 years, only 57 percent of the country is literate and many young people are unskilled and unemployed.

The Human Development Report for East Timor contributes to the understanding of these challenges faced by the world's newest country. It helps plan a route out of the cycle of poverty. It will be an invaluable tool for the new government of East Timor and all of its development partners.

Below left: President-Elect Xanana Gusmao (third from left) addresses the crowd at the launch of the National Human Development Report

Below Right: Children perform a traditional dance before ceremonially handing over the report