José Ramos-Horta

Dr. José Ramos-Horta is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, statesman, and lifelong advocate for peace and human rights. For nearly three decades in exile during Indonesia’s occupation of Timor-Leste (1975–1999), he served as the leading international voice for his people, building global awareness and mobilizing support through the United Nations and diplomatic channels. In 1996, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize alongside Carlos Ximenes Belo for their efforts toward a peaceful resolution in Timor-Leste. Following the country’s independence referendum in 1999, Ramos-Horta returned home and played a central role in building the new nation’s democratic institutions, serving as Foreign Minister, Prime Minister, and later President (2007–2012).

Widely recognized for guiding Timor-Leste through periods of conflict toward stability and reconciliation, he also contributed internationally as a UN envoy, including leading peacebuilding efforts in Guinea-Bissau and shaping global peace operations policy. Elected again as President in 2022, Ramos-Horta continues to champion peace, democracy, and inclusive development, both in Timor-Leste and on the global stage. He has also recently accepted an invitation from the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats to serve as an honorary individual member, reflecting his enduring commitment to liberal and democratic values and regional cooperation.