Hasegawa, S: Primordial Leadership

In post-conflict Timor-Leste, primordial leadership proved to be the key to building sustainable peace. It facilitated national ownership and accountability, helping national leaders to successfully turn the security crises of 2006 and 2008 into opportunities for fostering respect for democratic governance. This change in mindset and the ensuing spirit of national unity were instrumental in achieving peace and stability - rather than the externally induced, exclusive efforts in building institutional frameworks for the rule of law and democratic governance.