Timor-Leste (TL) is currently ranked the most democratic country in South East Asia. In 2017 TL held its first completely independent elections, and in 2018 achieved its highest-ever voter turnout of 80.98%. International observers described the elections as transparent, credible and well-managed. While 35% of national parliamentarians are women, priorities include increasing female representation at the local level and improving the capacity of electoral management bodies.