MDG Four in Timor-Leste

Goal Four: Reduce Child Mortality

 

Target: Reduced by two thirds, between 1990 and 2015, the under-five mortality rate

Scorecard for Timor-Leste: Possible to achieve if some changes are made

Child mortality has seen some fluctuations. For example, in 2001, out of 1,000 live births, there were 144 children who died before they reached the age of five. This rate decreased to 125/1,000 live births a year later, but increased again to 130/1,000 live births in 2004. The Government’s policies of immunization and better health care system brought this figure down to125 in 2007. Given that a number of sources have provided different figures, there may be some issues of comparability among the sources. As with regard to infant mortality, Timor-Leste saw 88 deaths per 1,000 live births among those below one year of age. The situation worsen in 2006 as a result of the crisis, bringing the number of deaths up to 98/1,000 live births. In 2007, however, various sources indicated significant progress in the health sector, bringing the number of deaths down to 68/1,000 live births. If the Government of Timor-Leste continues to give priority to health, water and sanitation sectors and widen the coverage of health services to all mothers and immunization to newborn babies, then it is expected that by 2015 the country would be able to reach the set target, that is, 53/1,000 live births.

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