Peace through Nonviolent Action: The East Timorese Resistance Movement's Strategy for Engagement

The transition from violent struggle against the Indonesian occupation of East Timor to nonviolent resistance increased the chances of victory for the independence movement. This movement conforms to the theory of the efficacy of nonviolent political action. Aware of the difficulties facing their movement, East Timorese resistance leaders emphasised the need to advance their nonviolence strategy through links with concerned international groups. Links between the resistance movement in East Timor and the pro-democracy movement in Indonesia were also beneficial for the cause of East Timor's independence.