The demography of conflict-related mortality in timor-leste (1974-1999): Reflections on empirical quantitative measurement of civilian killings, disappearances, and famine-related deaths

Assessments of the magnitude and patterns of human rights violations have been done by many methods, most frequently using convenience samples of qualitative interviews and multiple systems estimation. In recent work with the Commission on Reception, Truth and Reconciliation in Timor-Leste, estimates of conflict-related mortality were derived using a combination of survey-based estimates and multiple systems estimation based on graveyard records and qualitative testimony data. This chapter presents the data and methods used to estimate conflict-related mortality between 1975 and 1999 in Timor-Leste. A discussion of the comparative advantages and disadvantages of the respective data sources and methods is presented.