Paper short abstract:

This paper examines reproduction and population in Timor-Leste in the context of the country’s rapid post-conflict population growth. It considers the different population logics at work in shaping ideas about producing the next generation and the value of reproduction.

Paper long abstract:

Timor-Leste experienced a significant loss of life under a 24-year Indonesian occupation, however since independence the country has experienced rapid population growth, due to very high fertility rates. Over 70% of Timorese citizens are currently under 35 years old. National discourses around a capitalising on a 'demographic dividend' and investing in 'human capital' envision the transformation of a youthful post-conflict population into a valuable national resource. Based on ongoing ethnographic research which investigates the meaning and value reproduction in Timor-Leste, this paper explores how local perceptions about creating future generations are tied to both experiences of past conflict and hopes for a better economic future. It further considers how multiple population logics, embedded in national history and visions for the future, come to value reproduction and population growth, in divergent ways.