Press Release

First Social Protection Symposium kicks off a new era for Lao People's Democratic Republic in protecting its poor and vulnerable

31 July 2024

The inaugural National Symposium addressed challenges faced by the rural population and informal workforce, highlighting social protection strategies and the crucial principle of leaving no citizen behind.

National Symposium on Social Protection — Photo: © ILO

VIENTIANE, Lao People's Democratic Republic, (ILO News) – The Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare (MOLSW) of Lao People's Democratic Republic, in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), hosted the first-ever National Symposium on Social Protection, addressing the complex challenges faced by the large rural population and informal workforce.

With financial support from the European Union and the Government of China, this inaugural Symposium took place at the International Convention and Training Centre on 31 July 2024, bringing together more than 250 participants.

Speaking at the opening, H.E. Dr Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune, Vice Prime Minister of Lao People's Democratic Republic said, "As our country battles the economic recovery post-COVID, it is paramount that we strengthen our commitment to social protection. This event is crucial to advancing our strategy to stabilize our agrarian economy and protect vulnerable groups from the disparities of informal employment. It is our priority to ensure that no Lao citizen is left behind, especially during crises and hardships."

Themed “Protecting Informal Workers and Rural Dwellers under the National Social Protection Strategy”, the Symposium featured dynamic discussions among policymakers, implementers, and development partners. Panel discussions, role plays, and a compelling documentary provided firsthand insights into how citizens can benefit from social protection and their expectations from the government. Exhibitions highlighted the latest policy issues and developments, enriching dialogue and understanding.

Bakhodir Burkhanov, UN Resident Coordinator in Lao People's Democratic Republic stated, “Investing in social protection can help to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Agenda. Social protection contributes to several SDG Targets, such as 1.3 (social protection), 3.8 (universal health coverage), 8.5 (decent work), and 10.4 (policies for greater equality). Initiatives like the Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transitions, launched by the UN Secretary-General in 2021, signal the UN system’s collective response to strengthen progress towards the SDGs, by creating decent jobs and extending social protection.”

Despite its significance, social protection financing in Lao People's Democratic Republic remains one of the lowest in the ASEAN region, accounting for only 1.6 per cent of GDP. This underfunding particularly impacts the National Health Insurance scheme, which faces a deficit and risks sustainability without increased budgetary allocations.

“One of the Symposium’s objectives is to increase the importance of social protection in policymaking and budgetary decision-making processes. Shifting from external funding to domestic financing is essential for the effective implementation of the Strategy”, said Xiaoyan Qian, Director of the ILO Country Office for Lao People's Democratic Republic.

"The Symposium represents a strong collaboration between the ILO, international development partners, and the Government of Lao People's Democratic Republic, and we are delighted to be part of it. It serves as a testament to our shared commitment to enhancing social protection, which can sustainably improve the lives of Lao workers and their families", Qian added.

Lao People's Democratic Republic, a predominantly agrarian nation, heavily relies on informal employment with 86 per cent of the workforce engaged in agriculture, forestry, and fishing. This sector, comprising approximately 1.4 million workers, faces low and irregular incomes, poor working conditions, and inadequate social protection.

In April 2020, the Lao government adopted the National Social Protection Strategy, demonstrating the State’s commitment to gradually reducing poverty and promoting equitable socio-economic development. Under the three pillars of Health Insurance, Social Security and Social Welfare, the Strategy aims to ensure that by 2030, all Lao citizens have access to essential services under a “Leaving No One Behind” approach.