United Nations in Lao PDR

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. In addition to 17 global goals, in 2016 the Government of Lao PDR has formally launched the national SDG18, ‘Lives Safe from UXO’ (unexploded ordnance), in the presence of the UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. As UXO remains an issue affecting national development in multiple dimensions, Lao PDR's output under the SDG18 contributes to the national outcomes under all the other SDGs. On the present map, some of the activities attributed to Vientiane are those which are carried out across the whole country.

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Publication

28 March 2024

UN Country Annual Results Report 2023

The 2023 Annual Results Report provides a comprehensive overview of the UN development support to the national priorities during the second year of the implementation of the Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2022-26). Bringing together the work of 25 UN Agencies, Funds and Programmes under four Strategic Outcomes, the report highlights the collective work of the UN in Lao PDR in response to key development challenges in 2023. Human interest stories, reflections on how we worked together and priorities for the future are also featured in the report.

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Publication

02 November 2022

Joint Programme on High-Frequency Data: Bulletin 1 Vulnerable Groups

This information bulletin was jointly developed by the Macroeconomic Research Institute, LASES, and the UN in Lao PDR under the Joint Programme on “High Frequency Data” in response to the current food, energy, and financing crises. The bulletin spotlights Vulnerable Groups in the context of the financial and socio-economic challenges in Lao PDR and is the first bulletin in a series as part the Joint Programme. The second one will provide information on “Food Security and Livelihoods” and the third bulletin is on “Macroeconomic analysis of the country’s economy”. More about the programme: The Joint Programme was set up in the context of the rapidly depreciating value of the KIP and the rising prices for food, fuel and fertilisers which came on top of the already exacerbated financial and socio-economic vulnerabilities. The current shocks can affect a wide range of individuals in many areas ranging from employment status, education, food consumption to gender-based violence. To capture these recent manifestations and potential trends, the Joint Programme considers collected data from households and businesses across the country as well as macro-economic developments. Until December 2022, the data collected and related analysis will be made available to interested stakeholders and distributed through three information bulletins and discussed during a multi-stakeholder workshop towards the end of the programme. The outcome of this workshop as well as the most significant findings of the three bulletins will be summarised in a final policy report. This Joint Programme is funded by the Joint SDG Fund’s Development Emergency Modality, which was set to give more than 100 UN country teams worldwide the opportunity to receive fast and flexible seed financing to support governments in understanding the current changes and needs to tackle the ongoing global food, energy, and financing crises.

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Publication

23 December 2022

Joint Programme on High-Frequency Data: Bulletin 2 - Food Security and Livelihoods

This information bulletin was jointly developed by the Macroeconomic Research Institute, LASES, and the UN in Lao PDR under the Joint Programme on “High Frequency Data” in response to the current food, energy, and financing crises. The bulletin spotlights Vulnerable Groups in the context of the financial and socio-economic challenges in Lao PDR and is the second bulletin in a series as part the Joint Programme. The second one provides information on “Food Security and Livelihoods” and the third bulletin will be on “Macroeconomic analysis of the country’s economy”. More about the programme: The Joint Programme was set up in the context of the rapidly depreciating value of the KIP and the rising prices for food, fuel and fertilisers which came on top of the already exacerbated financial and socio-economic vulnerabilities. The current shocks can affect a wide range of individuals in many areas ranging from employment status, education, food consumption to gender-based violence. To capture these recent manifestations and potential trends, the Joint Programme considers collected data from households and businesses across the country as well as macro-economic developments. Until December 2022, the data collected and related analysis will be made available to interested stakeholders and distributed through three information bulletins and discussed during a multi-stakeholder workshop towards the end of the programme. The outcome of this workshop as well as the most significant findings of the three bulletins will be summarised in a final policy report. This Joint Programme is funded by the Joint SDG Fund’s Development Emergency Modality, which was set to give more than 100 UN country teams worldwide the opportunity to receive fast and flexible seed financing to support governments in understanding the current changes and needs to tackle the ongoing global food, energy, and financing crises.

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Publication

08 May 2023

Joint Programme on High-Frequency Data: Bulletin 3 - Macroeconomic Outlook of Lao PDR

This information bulletin was jointly developed by the Macroeconomic Research Institute, LASES, and the UN in Lao PDR under the Joint Programme on “High Frequency Data” in response to the current food, energy, and financing crises. The bulletin spotlights Vulnerable Groups in the context of the financial and socio-economic challenges in Lao PDR and is the second bulletin in a series as part the Joint Programme. The second one provides information on “Food Security and Livelihoods” and the third bulletin will be on “Macroeconomic analysis of the country’s economy”. More about the programme: The Joint Programme was set up in the context of the rapidly depreciating value of the KIP and the rising prices for food, fuel and fertilisers which came on top of the already exacerbated financial and socio-economic vulnerabilities. The current shocks can affect a wide range of individuals in many areas ranging from employment status, education, food consumption to gender-based violence. To capture these recent manifestations and potential trends, the Joint Programme considers collected data from households and businesses across the country as well as macro-economic developments. Until December 2022, the data collected and related analysis will be made available to interested stakeholders and distributed through three information bulletins and discussed during a multi-stakeholder workshop towards the end of the programme. The outcome of this workshop as well as the most significant findings of the three bulletins will be summarised in a final policy report. This Joint Programme is funded by the Joint SDG Fund’s Development Emergency Modality, which was set to give more than 100 UN country teams worldwide the opportunity to receive fast and flexible seed financing to support governments in understanding the current changes and needs to tackle the ongoing global food, energy, and financing crises.

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Story

30 October 2024

Building futures, one cup of coffee at a time

United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. Antonio Guterres asked as he stopped by the Vanmai Coffee Cart in UN House during his recent visit to Lao PDR. As he took a sip from the cup of coffee he was offered, he learned about the remarkable journey that transformed Pheurp’s life. “There was a time when my family had to borrow money just to make ends meet,” Pheurp shared with the Secretary-General. “But now, thanks to the income from coffee farming, we’ve not only repaid those loans but also invested in a rice field tractor to enhance our productivity. We’re even able to save for my nieces’ and nephews’ education.” The coffee Pheurp proudly spoke of was grown by her and her fellow farmers in the remote, mountainous region of Houaphanh province. Once known for opium poppy cultivation, the region now focuses on building a brighter future through sustainable coffee farming. Smiling, she added, “Beyond growing a legal and sustainable crop, the UN’s support has given me the chance to learn new skills and become a leader in my community – something I never thought possible.”A significant milestone in working with Pheurp and her community has been the establishment of the Vanmai Coffee Cooperative, a farmer-owned organization that empowers its members to capture greater value from the coffee supply chain, ensuring that coffee remains viable and competitive alternative to opium.Once excluded from leadership positions, Pheurp is now at the forefront of initiatives such as the coffee cart. In 2021, a women’s network was formed to strengthen their role within the cooperative, and for women like Pheurp, this has been a turning point. Run entirely by women, managing the coffee cart has become a stepping stone, mirroring the decision-making responsibilities women are increasingly assuming within the cooperative’s governance structure. Through the network, Pheurp and her peers are not only gaining practical skills but also positioning themselves to take on more prominent roles in shaping decisions that impact their lives and the future of their communities.Growing coffee has reshaped Pheurp’s life in ways she could never have imagined. The interaction took place during the Secretary-General’s visit to Lao PDR for the UN-ASEAN Summit. “It was fascinating to visit and see first-hand how UNODC’s project has made such positive change in the lives of the farmers in Houaphanh province,” Bakhodir Burkhanov, the UN Resident Coordinator to Lao PDR told the Secretary-General. This partnership is a win-win on so many fronts. It has not only shifted farmers from opium to coffee, but also significantly enhanced women's economic empowerment.The blog is written by Soutthida Soukthavone, National Programme Officer / Officer-in-Charge for Alternative Development, UNODC & Aksonethip Somvorachit, Communications and Advocacy Officer, UNRCO

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UN Secretary-General António Guterres meets with Vanmai Cooperative member, Pheurp, with UNODC officers

Story

07 October 2024

Strokes Of Hope

But it wasn’t seen as a profitable profession in Laos. At least the earnings will never be enough to make ends meet. My parents were supportive, as long as I kept it as a hobby.About five years ago, a colleague told me that there was a young artist he planned to meet on his trip to Pakse (Champasak) who has done beautiful work. His name was Seevanh Sibounhueang (Vanh).I got very curious. Questions jumped around in my head: is he someone who is well off? How is it possible to have art as a profession in this market? All these thoughts kept spinning around in my head, as I recalled that I had to give up my passion of painting and find other passions to build a career of. So I was stunned to know that finding art was this young man’s map to finding a new life. Immediately, I searched for his name and have followed him on Facebook ever since.A couple of weeks ago, as my team was searching for creative ways to display the Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) in our office building, we reached out to big names and famous artists in town. We needed something to be done urgently. I almost gave up. Luckily, as I was scrolling through my Facebook feed for more options, I came across Vanh’s recent artwork and immediately called him. Vanh who is 28 years old now, was born in Vientiane Capital before moving to Pakse to live with his wife and family. The third child in a family of eight, his life changed forever when he was a teenager. On one rainy evening, his father asked for his help to move a piece of metal above the roof. Unfortunately, while transporting the metal, the other end touched a run-down wire which badly electrocuted him. Vanh could have lost his life. It took him weeks before he could walk but the news that devastated him the most was that he would lose both his arms. He wasn’t ready. But there was no other choice as the tissues surrounding his arm had died. His parents took the decision to amputate his arms before it was too late.Suicide crossed his mind several times as he kept dwelling in the injustice he faced- from having had a full- functioning body, to eventually losing his arms over that accident. He was afraid and embarrassed to even get out of his house, “I wasn’t born with a disability, and I was scared to be seen. Will those eyes judge me? Will they look down on me? It was all in my head that the community wouldn’t accept me.”.“Despair. That’s all I can say about how I felt. But if I did end my life, if I felt I was a burden- my parents could have let me die that night. They didn’t have to save me,” shared Vanh. After months of trying to accept his reality, Vanh told himself that he should not stay sad forever, at least as a way to show his gratitude to his loved ones. Boredom soon took over as he stayed home all day, and Vanh started looking at art tutorials by Thai teachers on YouTube. Similar to Lao language, it was quite easy for him to understand Thai and learn. Soon, Vanh started picking up skills. Vanh had minimal equipment and began sketching. He used his foot in his first attempt to write and it wasn’t easy. After a while, he made his first stroke with a paint brush. Vanh practiced frequently and it got a bit simpler to control. Then, he tried to use the brush with his mouth. But this was very inconvenient as he found it difficult to see how accurate his movements were, as his head moved with each motion. At one point, Vanh got so annoyed that he searched around his home and asked his younger brother to get the rubber from their motorcycle tyres to make a wrap around his arm to which his brush could be attached. At least, this way it would be durable. After a lot of practice, he achieved precision and was able to wear the rubber set by himself. “I wanted to be a car mechanic. At least that was what I thought was my ambition before that night. But now that I am here looking back- wanting to be an artist was always in me,” Vanh said, smiling. He reminisced of how he would love to sketch pictures of cars and would have done anything to decorate cars. Vanh said since he didn’t have a car- why not just draw one instead?So how did he get on social media? Apparently, there was one programme to support business thinking and design supported by Maybank for persons with disabilities in Malaysia, back when he was getting back on his feet. Vanh was opened to tools and social media marketing which he tried to access as soon as he got back to Laos.Vanh attempted to add as many people as possible on his own Facebook account, by the name of Vanh likes drawing. He began with realistic art such as portraits and not long after, he received his first customer. A policewoman who saw how realistic his artwork was, approached Vanh to make a portrait of her. That was like a fire that sparked his soul. He didn’t know how to accept her payment and he thought 100,000 (LAK) (about US$) was too expensive with his lack of experience. But she liked it so much that she paid more, so Vanh could buy more equipment to continue his work. For the first time, he felt hope again. Vanh sought options for how he can look for marketable art and he saw that in neighboring countries, there are customizable shoes, bags and t-shirts using acrylic paint, which he adores. He also really wanted to buy canvases and paint but did not have enough to purchase any.Soon, he resorted to stealing his little sister’s shoes and painted on them. He hid them from her, unsure if she would be angry for what he did. But thankfully, she liked it. And that, turned into his new product line. He continued to find new customers, showcased his work online to invite more people to his Facebook page. When I showed Vanh’s artwork to our team- they immediately said yes to having him work with us. We wanted to localize and come up with an SDG installation, with a Lao look and feel. We decided to go with the “Pha Khao”- a Lao-style seated round bamboo table on which each SDG would be painted. Vanh also liked the idea and got straight into work. Indeed, Vanh did not fail to produce another masterpiece. He was also inspired to use local products for his future work. He expressed his heartfelt appreciation to us for trusting him with this task. In the coming weeks, Vanh will be working to complete his first gallery and wishes to also ask for donations of used items like the Pha Khao and other locally- available items so he can upcycle them to showcase there.The gallery is a result of support from his friend who is also a person with disability and an art collector. After the official launch, Vanh wishes to send part of his revenue as his contribution to support the community of persons with disabilities. “I was very poor. I was lost, not knowing what to do or where to go. But with the support from our community, I have got to where I am today,” Vanh further added, “I want to make sure that I can give back as much as I can, so we can all have an easier tomorrow”. And that was our very first in-person encounter with Vanh, the artist who paints hope with every stroke of his brush, especially in our hearts.The blog is written by Aksonethip Somvorachit, Associate Development Coordination Officer, Communications and Advocacy, UN Resident Coordinator's Office, Lao PDR.

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Story

10 July 2024

A handful of rice fields high hopes

“Building Climate-Resilient and Eco-friendly Agriculture Systems and Livelihoods” (Climate REAL) is a project implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) with financial support from Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) as part of KOICA’s Integrated Programme for Climate Resilience and Empowerment in Attapeu Province, Lao People’s Democratic Republic.Five beneficiaries share the positive changes experienced from participating in the project.As the newly harvested rice is being processed in the rice sorter, Khammoun Heuangsouvantha remarks on the noticeable change in the quality and quantity of the rice he can produce. The 58-year-old has been farming rice all his life – starting at a young age helping his parents in the fields – but this is the first season that he has seen such good yields. For decades, Khammoun had only experienced low yields, and providing for his family of six had become increasingly more difficult. Crop production was affected by multiple factors including threats imposed by climate change, natural disasters, pests and diseases. Farmers in the community had few resources or strategies to respond to these problems and relied on traditional practices. “With all the effort I put in, I only ever got low output. If I put in less effort, I got even lower yields.” February 2023 was the start of a new venture for Khammoun. Because of his passion for rice farming and enthusiasm for new knowledge and skills to improve crop production, he was nominated by local government authorities to participate in the Climate REAL project activities. Initial engagement with the project included weekly trainings of season-long Farmer Field School on rice seed production and study visits to well-established and successful farmers in Savannakhet and Champasak Provinces. Khammoun learned quickly and was able to remember by heart the ingredients and proportions of botanical pesticides from locally available materials and specific techniques for rice planting procedures as well as pest and disease management. He could also provide the rationale behind the techniques. “I admit that I did not know about which fertilizer was for rice crops, the role of fertilizer for rice at each growth stage, which formula to use when and by how much in relation to the rice growth stage and size of paddy field until I joined the project. Now, I know that each formula contains different nutrient needs for rice crop development at each growth stage. Through learning by doing, l also learned that the level of fertilizer application depends on the rice growth stage and size of the rice field as well as soil fertility.”From joining the project, Khammoun now knows how to deal with, prevent and manage rice insects and disease such as planthoppers and seed-borne disease. He also fully recognizes how much the proper application of fertilizer contributes to the rice yield.One of the most significant lessons was the importance of seed selection to improve the quality of the yields. Techniques on seed selection need to be performed every rice planting season to reduce any potential seed-borne diseases, which can cause severe problems in the rice cultivation process. Within a few months, Khammoun was able to put his learning into practice with good results. He received 9kg of RD2 rice seeds from the project to produce RD3 rice seeds in the rainy/rice-growing season from June to November 2023 and decided to conduct an experiment. He would compare the results of using traditional practices and project intervention techniques with the rice seeds given by the project against his own. He applied what he had learned in the Farmer Field School on RD3 rice seed production, and used traditional practices as a control field. He observed a big difference between the two. He was delighted to report that rice grown with techniques and quality seeds introduced by the project produced bigger and greener leaves and plumper rice ears.Not only was the quality better, but the project intervention techniques also resulted in greater volume. The 9kg of RD2 rice seeds from a reliable source produced 480 kg of RD3 rice seeds which, at LAK 12 000 per kilo, could sell for approximately LAK 6 million. Conversely, his own traditional rice variety and technique yielded lower outputs and could only fetch a price of LAK 7 000 per kilo. This is the first time that Khammoun has been involved with projects such as Climate REAL and, while initial investments were high, the results have been amazing. He and others in farmer groups in the area are grateful to the project for investing in the rice sorting machine, which reduces the cost of processing the quality rice seed with potential market access. This initial investment gave direct beneficiaries the confidence to financially engage with project activities and also showed the potential for their own investment in the future. Because of his great results, Khammoun has been invited to join many workshops, meetings and events. He has gone on to share his knowledge with his family and the wider community, including local farmers who have not yet participated in the project directly and with other target districts of the project.Hopes are high for the rice farming communities of Attapeu Province. Apart from planning and preparing for the next rice growing season, Khammoun has also started to make plans for his grandson’s future. He personally believes that there is no end to the learning and enrichment and that local farmers can benefit from continued support. It is hoped that in the next 5 to 10 years, villagers will be able to produce enough rice not only for their own families but also for sale. The potential to start a small agribusiness and gradually improve living conditions would be within reach.

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Story

02 July 2024

A garden of hope and prosperity

“Building Climate-Resilient and Eco-friendly Agriculture Systems and Livelihoods” (Climate REAL) is a project implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) with financial support from Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) as part of KOICA’s Integrated Programme for Climate Resilience and Empowerment in Attapeu Province, Lao PDR.Five beneficiaries share the positive changes experienced from participating in the project.Securing a better future for his children is what inspires Mr. La Xayyavieng to work hard and continue to find ways to earn a stable income from the land. For the 46-year-old father of three, his great passion is clear in his determination for his children to gain knowledge and experience abroad to bring back to the family land. “Deep in my heart, I have always known that agriculture is the lifeline for us to survive and to grow. Even though the family has experienced hardship, I have been determined to send two of my kids to Vietnam to learn agricultural know-how and best practices. Upon their return, I expected big improvements to my land.” However, it is Mr. La himself who is already creating change. After being selected under the Climate REAL project as one of the beneficiaries from Phok Village, Saysettha District, Mr. La has transformed his agricultural practices and has been able to increase his income by 160% in just one season.For years, Mr. La’s total income was less than LAK 30 million per year – barely enough to satisfy the basic needs of the family. Lack of access to alternative technologies and knowledge limited Mr. La to traditional practices, with the main sources of income coming from rain-fed rice farming and planting vegetables during the dry season. This meant that making a living during the rainy season was difficult. Growing vegetables was not an option at all as the vegetables would rot and the crop would be destroyed. Through project interventions, successful vegetable farming in both the rainy season and dry season is now a reality. It was during learning and knowledge exchange visits to Savannakhet and Champasak Provinces, that Mr. La realized what the future could hold. “I knew from the bottom of my heart that greenhouses would work for me as soon as I saw them and understood what they were,” he explained. For the greenhouse to be a success, Mr. La would further develop his skills through Farmer Field School training and would receive agricultural inputs to get started. A key part of the skills development was Agribusiness Training, which provided Mr. La with essential knowledge on understanding market needs, business operations and analysis. From the first rainy season crop, Mr. La reported that he was able to earn nearly as much in just four months as he would previously earn in a whole year.In addition to the vegetable seeds for the rainy season, the Climate REAL project also supplied watermelon, cucumber and corn seeds for Mr. La to experiment with during the dry season. These proved to be a huge success, with Mr. La seeing a return-on-investment of up to 900% for watermelon. The solar-powered small-scale irrigation system has been a key factor in increased profits as Mr. La does not have to cover the cost of electricity to irrigate. “Only 75 days of work and I earned a income of LAK 38.5 million from selling watermelon and LAK 2.65 million from selling cucumber. Where else I could earn such money from what I am passionate about?”The Climate REAL project has identified Mr. La as a model farmer as he builds his skills and knowledge from this project in addition to others conducted in the district prior to Climate REAL interventions. Farmers in Phok Village – especially members of Mr. La’s production group – are already seeking his advice for the coming planting seasons. The plan is to grow tomatoes, spring onion, lettuce and coriander, as the demand and prices are high.To pave the way for his children, Mr. La has also already started to transfer his knowledge and know-how to his youngest son, who is now 17 years old and studying at secondary school in the district. For Mr. La, the future is looking brighter.

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Story

28 June 2024

Lessons and value of joint planning in Lao PDR

As is the case in so many parts of the world, Lao PDR is highly exposed to rapidly increasing climate and disaster risks. These risks have enormous and varied implications, including frequent floods threatening 39.7% of the population1, and droughts disrupting livelihoods of more than 50% of workers in the agricultural sector2. But the availability of sufficiently detailed climate risk vulnerability data covering all 18 provinces and 148 districts remains a major challenge, substantially limiting ability to plan and prepare.In response to this clear and pressing need, in 2024 six UN agencies working in Lao PDR prioritised plans for climate risk vulnerability assessments (CRVAs) to help close this data gap.So far, so familiar.However, what is different about 2024 is that under the new generation Cooperation Framework, increasingly integrated joint workplanning processes have been put in place and are starting to drive changes in how the UN plans as system, rather than only as separate entities.And it was during this joint planning, in particular the discussions in the Results Group on “Environment, Climate Change and Resilience” (co-chaired by FAO and UNEP), that the connections between the different initiatives planned first became apparent across agencies.And with this early identification of plans, came the ability to take early action to coordinate.Crucially, identifying this common priority at this stage- before any of the work actually started- enabled agencies involved to better coordinate their assessments for greater overall coherence and efficiency, while reducing the burden on key Government counterparts.Whilst there were similarities between the different initiatives, each of the planned CRVA’s was distinct, prioritising different issues in line with agencies’ respective mandates (e.g., risks to different sectors, or segments of the population). By recognising this, we could set about working to minimize overlaps and maximise the novel contribution of each to improve the quality and quantity of information available to decision makers.Following a discussion on this initially within the UN Country Team, and later including Government counterparts during a Joint Steering Committee meeting, the discussion related to CRVAs has now shifted to technical level.Relevant agencies’ focal points are exploring ways to harmonise data collected from the different studies, and to empower the Government as the coordinating owner of data generated. Different options for a shared public-facing CRVA data platform are being explored, and the Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Group (MELG) is engaging on how the data can be most effectively shared and used.So what can we learn from this?Joint workplanning exercises can often be met with a degree of scepticism about whether the time investment is really worth it, beyond the detailed planning that individual entities already do.But without this joint workplanning process, each agency would not have been aware of potential connections between their CRVA plans, and we could have been left with -at best- an after-the-fact attempt to reconcile and integrate conclusions.Instead, we are seeing increasing evidence of how these substantive annual discussions and joint prioritisation exercises can increase coherence and overall impact of programmes, reduce the burden on key Government institutions through more concentrated and effective partnerships.But we also believe that we can go further.While the 2024 joint work planning process helped identify common priorities around which collaboration is being strengthened, agencies’ projects and programmes for the year were largely agreed upon already internally to each agency, and with respective donors, when joint workplan discussions took place, limiting the scope for in-depth revisions of agencies’ plans.Tackling the next frontier, the UNCT in Lao PDR is now considering revising its annual planning cycle. While individual agency planning is currently undertaken prior to country-level JWPs, the new vision for the UNCT planning cycle in Lao PDR would include initiating joint workplanning earlier so to take place in parallel with and informing agencies’ respective planning processes. This proposal will be discussed in detail at a UNCT retreat later this year.Through the reformed approaches to UN programming under the Cooperation Framework, we are already seeing how systems are being put in place to identify, discuss, and act on information as a UN country team much faster.But as the reform beds in, there is so much more we can do.

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Press Release

26 November 2024

Vientiane Landmark illuminates in Orange to say “NO” to Violence Against Women and Girls

The two-week-long campaign, involving 40 partners, supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the European Union (EU) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), aimed to raise awareness and foster actions to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls. In Laos, about 1 in 3 women have experienced sexual, physical or emotional violence, and yet of these women, only 1 in 10 sought help from authorities such as the police, medical centres or Lao Women Union and relevant sectors. These numbers underscore the urgent need for enhanced coordination and efforts to effectively prevent violence, provide accessible support services, and ensure that survivors are met with compassion, dignity and action.The Orange Patuxay event, held under the theme 'Toward 30 Years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls,' brought together a diverse group of local and international attendees. Participants wore orange in solidarity, creating a powerful collective statement to advance the advocacy efforts, which will continue until December 10 (Human Rights Day). The event saw active engagement from a wide range of stakeholders, including government representatives, United Nations agencies, embassies and development partners, civil society organizations, disability advocates, and both public and private sector representatives. Their unified presence highlighted the commitment to ending all forms of violence against women and girls in Lao PDR, amplifying the 'Say No' message through their participation in various activities.During the ceremony, a video message from the Prime Minister of Lao PDR, H.E. Sonexay Siphandone was broadcast for the audience , reaffirming the commitment of the Lao Government to prevent and eliminate all forms of violence regardless of sexes and genders. In his message, he states: "Every year, during the 16 Days of Activism, we unite to reaffirm our ownership, leadership, cooperation, and engagement in ending violence against women and girls. Our government stands firm in its commitment to implementing laws and policies that promote gender equality and protect women's rights. We are dedicated to strengthening mechanisms to prevent and address violence, transforming harmful attitudes, and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable under the law. By allocating resources and investing in initiatives that support gender equality, we are paving the way for a future where every woman and girl can live free from fear and violence." Speaking at the ceremony, Mme Aly Vongnorbountham, President of the Lao Women’s Union (LWU) and Vice Standing President of the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children, said: "Orange radiates positivity and hope, symbolizing a brighter future free from violence against women and girls. Together, we can take a stand—support survivors, empower them with vital information to access justice, and amplify our voices to challenge harmful societal norms. Join the campaign to advocate for stricter laws, stronger enforcement, and greater resources to end violence against women and girls. Let’s unite for a world where every woman and girl can live in safety and dignity."Mr. Kambiz Kabiri, UNFPA Officer-in-Charge said: In the past decade, Lao PDR has undergone a remarkable transformation in cultural norms. Through the combined efforts of public awareness campaigns, strong government leadership, and substantial investments in Prevention of Violence Against Women (VAW), coordinated by relevant ministries and development partners, tolerance for domestic violence has significantly diminished. However, the work is far from complete. UNFPA remains resolute in advocating for bold action to raise awareness, drive advocacy, and promote innovative solutions to eradicate the violence against women and girls.H.E. Mr. Jung Yung SOO, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea:“The Republic of Korea sees the Violence Against Women and Children as a significant matter for eradication and elimination. They put their effort to tackle the problem by supporting Khanhom Project and establishment of the GEVAW Center is a significant milestone to respond and eradicate violence against women in Lao PDR. The Republic of Korea and KOICA will continue to support and stand by Lao PDR to fight against GBV and enhance gender equality based on outcomes of the KhanHom Project”.Mr. Bakhodir Burkhanov, The UN Resident Coordinator in Lao PDR: [The United Nations pledges to continue its strong partnership with Laos and all stakeholders to build a future where women and girls can live without the fear of violence. The Pact for the Future, recently adopted by world leaders including Lao PDR, reaffirms the critical importance of eradicating all forms of discrimination and violence, to not only protect their fundamental rights, but also to build resilient, equitable communities where all can thrive.H.E Mark Gallagher, Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union to Laos “Gender equality is more than a goal; it is a fundamental right and a shared responsibility, central to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Today is both a celebration of progress and a call to action. We must redouble efforts to eliminate GBV, expand reproductive health programs, and enhance education and economic opportunities for women and girls to ensure they can live lives of their choosing”.H.E. Ms. Benita Sommerville, Deputy Head of Mission, Australian Embassy to Lao PDR : “The Australian Government is committed to advancing gender equality and ending gender-based violence in all its forms. To achieve gender equality, men's violence against women must end, so women can be and feel safe – at home, at school, at work, in their communities and online. Australia is committed to implementing effective interventions to help stop violence against women. Australia’s International Development Policy highlights the need to address, prevent and respond to gender-based violence, to make our region peaceful, stable, and prosperous. We are proud to work alongside the Lao government and our partners to combat gender-based violence and champion the rights and dignity of all women and girls.”The illumination of Patuxay Monument into orange marks the first official government event in a dynamic, action-packed calendar for the 16 Days of Activism, spanning from the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November to Human Rights Day on 10 December. The campaign will feature a series of impactful activities, including seminars, media campaigns, and public discussions on critical topics such as the importance of mental health for survivors of gender-based violence, HIV/AIDS, and the rights of people with disabilities.Following Patuxay illumination in orange, a diverse and inclusive fashion show themed "The Empowerment Runway" took place at ASEAN Park, spotlighting various forms of violence while advocating for inclusivity and respect for the rights of all women, including those with disabilities, women from rural and ethnic communities, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.The 16 Days of Activism serves as a powerful platform for raising awareness, fostering dialogue, and driving tangible action to eliminate violence against women and girls. It calls for solidarity and collective actions, through united efforts to build a future of safety, equality, and dignity for all women and girls in Lao PDR.

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Press Release

15 November 2024

Round Table Implementation Meeting 2024 Press Release

The Round Table Implementation Meeting (RTIM) 2024 was successfully held today in Vientiane, marking a significant moment in the annual coordination efforts of the Sector Working Groups. This year's discussions centered on critical development issues as Lao PDR plans its 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (NSEDP) and prepares for its upcoming graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status. Chaired by H.E. Ph.D. Phet Phomphiphak, Minister of Planning and Investment, alongside Mr. Bakhodir Burkhanov, UN Resident Coordinator to Lao PDR, RTIM 2024 took place under the theme "Enhancing Partnerships to Support the Implementation of the National Socio-Economic Development Plan". The meeting brought together over 300 representatives, including deputy ministers, vice governors, members of the National Assembly, ambassadors, heads of international organizations, and nonprofit organization representatives. The RTIM 2024 aimed to provide a comprehensive update on the implementation of the 9th NSEDP in 2024, informed by insights from the Mid-Term Review, while also laying the foundation for the upcoming 10th NSEDP. Additionally, the meeting evaluated Lao PDR's progress toward LDC graduation and discussed outcomes from the recent Summit of the Future held in New York. Collaboration in development was also discussed, particularly concerning Laos' participation in the global partnership monitoring survey of the 4th Round of the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation (GPEDC) and the review of the Vientiane Declaration on Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation (VDCAP) for 2016-2025. In continuity with last year's RTIM, RTIM 2024 featured two panel discussions that enabled a deeper strategic dialogue between the government and development stakeholders. These discussions focused on key topics such as Sustainable Financing for Development Priorities and Human Capital Development to Support Development Goals. The recommendations and action points arising from these discussions will be presented to the Prime Minister during a debrief meeting, with the goal of informing the ongoing development of the 10th NSEDP and the preparations for LDC graduation. During the meeting, Minister of Planning and Investment Ph.D. Phet Phomphiphak stated, “RTIMs are essential for Lao PDR. This year's meeting provides a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to discuss the progress of the 9th NSEDP implementation in 2024 and to outline the direction for 2025. It also serves as a platform for setting priorities for the 10th NSEDP (2026-2030), preparing for LDC graduation, and reviewing the outcomes of the Summit of the Future in New York. Through this year’s RTIM, we aim to engage in meaningful discussions on sustainable development and associated human capital development. Furthermore, we are addressing Laos' participation in the 4th round of the Global Partnership Monitoring for Effective Development. Despite facing financial challenges, neighboring countries, development partners, and other stakeholders remain committed to advancing the implementation of the NSEDPs, demonstrating a positive trend overall”. Mr. Bakhodir Burkhanov added, “This meeting allows us to explore ways to refine and strengthen our collaboration. By working together effectively, we can better address the challenges we face and accelerate our progress toward the national vision of sustainable development”. The RTIM received technical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on behalf of the UN Development System and the development partner community, with financial backing from USAID and New Zealand for the organization of this meeting.

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Press Release

30 October 2024

World Food Day “Right to food for a better Life and a better future” & the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty “Ending social and institutional maltreatment acting together for just, peaceful and inclusive societies”

His Excellency, General. Vilay Lakhamfong, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Public Security, Lao PDR; His Excellency, Dr Linkham Douangsavanh, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Mrs Martine Thérer, United Nations Resident Coordinator ad interim (UNRC a.i) / United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Ms Kyung Mee-Kim, FAO Representative to Lao PDR, honoured to cut the ribbon for the opening of the event on this occasion.World Food Day, and International Day and National Week for the Eradication of Poverty serve as platforms for individuals, changemakers, organizations, and government agencies, to come together to make a meaningful call to action, to ensure Zero Hunger by 2030 can be achieved both locally and globally. Under the World Food Day theme “Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future” and the International Day and National Week for the Eradication of Poverty “Ending Social and Institutional Maltreatment Acting together for just, peaceful and inclusive societies”, this joint commemoration urges us to reflect on the millions suffering from chronic hunger and malnutrition in Lao PDR and around the world. Challenges to food security and improving outcomes on health and well-being remain.His Excellency, Dr Linkham Douangsavanh, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, highlighted several factors that lead to famine, such as climate change, natural hazards, disease outbreak, war and high prices of goods and materials. Despite these challenges, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry achieved significant progress in 2024, meeting 95% of the rice production target and 75% of the meat production target. His Excellency, Dr Linkham Douangsavanh noted that this result contributes to the national vision for the sustainable transformation of agribusiness practices, strengthened domestic agriculture production to minimise the needs for imports, and to creating valued-added agriculture products for exports.Ms Kim Kyung-Mee, FAO Representative to Lao PDR, affirmed “the right to food is not just an aspiration, but a fundamental human right. Every individual should have access to sufficient amounts of nutritious, diverse, affordable, and safe foods”. Even though Lao PDR and the rest of the world have experienced economic shocks, extreme weather events and the lingering impacts of global crisis, affecting our most vulnerable communities, “the path to food security is one we must walk together. It requires us to transform our food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable. It demands that we integrate the right to food across agrifood systems policies and programs, and it necessitates that we ensure equitable access to land, water, forests, fisheries, and livestock for all; and this is well resonated through the theme of the World Food Day: Rights to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future”, she added.Ms Martine Thérer, Resident Representative, United Nations Resident Coordinator a.i., /United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and noted that poverty reduction is central to the protection of the right to food, including access to adequate and sufficient food, and that the right to food is crucial to the enjoyment of all human rights. She advised that building resilience for communities through a whole of society approach is essential, as all walks of life in our society need to be on board and be part of the plan for ending poverty. Aligning with the theme of the International Day and National Week for the Eradication of Poverty, Ms Thérer emphasized that working with partners, the UN has a clear commitment to help tackle the most pressing development issues contributing the continued presence of poverty and ensuring that we work to ensure no one is left behind from national progress.The celebration of the World Food Day and the International Day and National Week for the Eradication of Poverty was well witnessed by line ministries, development partners, civil society, private sector and other stakeholders, including youth and the general public, in the country. **********Media Contacts:FAO Lao PDR – Tel: (856-21) 413 205, 414 503, 450 455Fax: (856-21) 414 500Email: vilaylack.khounvisith@fao.org UNDP –Tel: (856-21) 267 777Fax: (856-21) 264 939Email: info.la@undp.org

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Press Release

17 October 2024

Strengthening Social Protection: Building a Resilient Future for Lao PDR

The achievements of Lao PDR's development model are impressive, but there is a growing recognition that not all segments of society have benefited equally. While economic growth has lifted many out of poverty, significant disparities persist, with half of the country’s children lacking access to essential services like education, healthcare, and adequate living conditions. Income inequality has risen over the years, and despite notable progress in human development, recent gains have slowed.These gaps highlight the importance of ensuring that future development efforts are inclusive and leave no one behind. Important steps have already been taken to address these disparities, but there is a critical need to accelerate efforts, particularly in social protection. By doing so, the nation can better protect its citizens from economic and climate shocks and create a more equitable society.Lao PDR's journey toward inclusive growth is occurring at a time of heightened vulnerability. The impact of global challenges such as climate change, economic uncertainties, and geopolitical shifts is being felt across the region. In addition, recent events, like the floods following Typhoon Yagi, have underscored the need for robust systems that can respond to natural disasters and protect those most affected. The country’s proactive steps in disaster prevention, preparedness and response demonstrate a clear commitment to building resilience in the face of these challenges.A significant area where Lao PDR can enhance its resilience is through strengthening social protection. Investing in social assistance schemes is essential to prevent families from slipping back into poverty due to unexpected economic shocks, climate-related crises, or health emergencies. Informal workers, who constitute a large portion of the country's workforce, are especially vulnerable. Expanding social security coverage to include these workers would be a critical step toward building a more inclusive system that ensures protection for all, regardless of employment status. Harmonising services to ensure that social assistance and welfare is equitable across vulnerable groups such as persons with disability, children, elderly and victims of Unexploded Ordinance (UXO) is equally critical.The Government has already laid a strong foundation with the introduction of the National Social Protection Strategy in 2020 and the establishment of the National Social Protection Committee in 2021. These efforts mark significant progress in improving the coherence and coordination of social protection initiatives. The creation of Provincial Social Protection Committees is another positive step towards ensuring that local needs are addressed effectively, bringing support closer to communities across the country.However, enhancing social protection requires more than just policies; it demands strategic investments and innovative solutions to close existing gaps. Currently, the allocation to social protection and public healthcare stands at a modest percentage of GDP, which is lower than some of Lao PDR’s regional peers. Creating fiscal space is critical to ensure that essential services are accessible to all, particularly in rural areas.There is a clear opportunity to enhance the financial sustainability of social protection programs by exploring domestic funding mechanisms and fostering stronger partnerships with development partners. As Lao PDR prepares for its expected graduation from Least Developed Country status, securing sustainable financing for social protection will be vital to maintaining the momentum in poverty reduction and human development.Governance and data systems also play a crucial role in the effective delivery of social protection services. Efforts are underway to streamline these systems, but coordination among different ministries and agencies could be further strengthened. A more integrated approach would help ensure that eligible citizens receive the full range of benefits and services they are entitled to, reducing any gaps in support.The National Assembly's upcoming discussions on amendments to the Social Security and Health Insurance Laws present a timely opportunity to address key issues related to funding and management. By prioritizing social protection in its national development agenda, the Government can lay a solid foundation for a more resilient and inclusive future.Looking ahead, it is crucial to integrate social protection priorities into the National Socio-Economic Development Plan (NSEDP) for 2026-2030. This integration will not only provide a strategic direction for the sector but also ensure that social protection remains a central focus in the country’s broader development agenda. Enhancing dialogue and coordination between government entities and development partners will be essential in making this vision a reality.The National Social Protection Strategy serves as a guiding framework for the sector, promoting a unified vision for social protection in Lao PDR. While some institutions and partners may have different definitions of social protection, the strategy provides a common goal that can drive efforts towards a cohesive, data-driven approach to supporting the nation’s most vulnerable groups.As Lao PDR continues its development journey, strengthening social protection systems will be vital in safeguarding the progress made so far. By investing in inclusive and age-appropriate policies and resilient social protection schemes, we can ensure that every citizen has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances. As we mark the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, we are reminded of our collective responsibility to act together for just, peaceful, and inclusive societies.The Lao Government’s proactive efforts in improving social protection demonstrate a strong commitment to this goal. By building on these achievements, Lao PDR is well-positioned to create a future where economic growth is shared by all, and every citizen can look forward to a more secure and prosperous life.Authors H.E. Baykham Khattiya, Minister, Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, Government of Lao People's Democratic Republic.Martine Thérer, UNDP Resident Representative Xiaoyan Qian, Director, ILO Country Office for Thailand, Cambodia and Lao People's Democratic RepublicBilal Aurang Zeb Durrani, UNICEF Country Representative

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Press Release

15 October 2024

UN Secretary-General Reaffirms Commitment to Address UXO Legacy in Lao PDR

Since the end of the War, more than 20,000 people have been killed or permanently disabled from UXO accidents. Casualties in 2024 are already overtaking those in 2023, with 47 people killed or injured. What is alarming is that over 60 percent of victims are children. Most living survivors of accidents involving explosive remnants of war need medical care, physical rehabilitation and psychosocial support for the rest of their life. A highlight of the visit was the Secretary-General’s interaction with the UNDP Resident Representative, Martine Thérer, on The Stories from the Plateau, an artistic exhibition by Lao artist Bounpaul Photisan. The centerpiece of this exhibition is an artistic rendering of a cluster munition casing, which tells personal stories from the Indochina War (1964-1973) and its aftermath. Through Photisan’s vision, the cluster munition casing illustrates the war’s enduring impact on people, wildlife, and environment. For nearly three decades, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been a steadfast partner to the Government of Lao PDR in addressing UXO contamination. In collaboration with national authorities, UNDP has been leading the sector and has supported the establishment of the National Regulatory Authority for the UXO/Mine Action Sector (NRA) and the National Unexploded Ordnance Programme (UXO Lao). Together, they have achieved clearance of 918 km2 of land and removing nearly two million UXO. In recognition of the importance of this work, the Government of Lao PDR has adopted UXO clearance as the 18th National Sustainable Development Goal (SDG): Lives Safe from UXO. The contamination directly affects the country’s capacity to meet its development aspirations, especially in rural provinces where fertile land lies fallow due to the presence of UXO.During his visit, the Secretary-General reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to support Lao PDR in its efforts to overcome the challenges posed by UXOs. He highlighted the critical role of international cooperation in safeguarding lives and enabling sustainable development in the country, particularly for the rural communities most affected by UXO contamination. “We must continue to work together—Lao PDR and the global community—to rid the land of UXO. Only then can the people of this beautiful country build a future free from fear, and fully realize their development potential,” said Secretary-General Guterres.

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