Legal Readiness in Timor-Leste to Face Transnational Crime in The Asean Economic Community (AEC)

Abstract

Purpose: The ASEAN and the global community have significantly impacted the attitudes and behaviors of people in the ASEAN region, including Timor-Leste, towards global economic integration. Timor-Leste's entry into the ASEAN economic community is expected to increase human trafficking crimes, highlighting the need for a human trafficking law. This study aims to know the importance of legal readiness in Timor-Leste to face transnational crime in the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC).   Methodology: This study used a normative approach as the methodology. The subject of discussion is legal norms regarding transnational crime in Timor-Leste in facing the ASEAN economic community.   Results: The results showed the positive and negative impacts of globalization and the ASEAN community on Timor-Leste, emphasizing the opportunity and challenge. The government must prepare three essential points in facing transnational crime, such as taking anticipatory steps, preparing adequate legal products, and carrying out international cooperation for law harmonization.   Conclusion: Thus, it concludes international cooperation among ASEAN member states is necessary to strengthen the rules of international law and combat transnational crime effectively.