12 November 2024, Vientiane, Lao PDR: Lao Women Union, Lao Youth Union, the United Nations agencies and key development partners today came together to discuss groundbreaking initiatives aiming to empower youth and address gender-based violence in Lao PDR. 

These joint UN programmes, developed by UNFPA, UNICEF, UN-Habitat, ILO and UNESCO, under the leadership and coordination of the Resident Coordinator Office and in close partnership with the government of Lao PDR were presented for consideration and feedback to development partners and relevant national stakeholders.

The meeting, titled “Briefing Meeting with Development Partners on UN Joint Programming Areas to Advance Youth Empowerment and Address Gender-Based Violence,” provided a platform to highlight the significance of joint planning. The goal is to harmonize efforts, focus strategic interventions, and accelerate progress in realizing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in particular to reach the most vulnerable and marginalized populations.

Additionally, the meeting facilitated an innovative platform for participants, including the Lao Women’s Union, Lao Youth Union, and Ministry of Health, to share their valuable feedback on the joint programme's design and development ensuring alignment with Lao national development priorities.

One of the joint programme presented at the meeting is Safer Cities developed by UNFPA, UN-Habitat and UNICEF aims to expand and scale-up ongoing efforts to prevent and respond to gender-based violence and promote gender equality in Lao PDR, including through the expansion of counselling and protection centres and improving health, forensic, and WASH facilities.

H.E Madame Aly Vongnobountham, President of the Lao Women's Union and Vice Standing President of the National Commission for the Advancement of Women and Mother and Child (NCAWMC) emphasized on the importance of joint action to address the emerging issues, and to prevent progress from rolling back. She said:

The need for sustained and increased investment in gender equality and in preventing and responding to gender-based violence is clearer than ever. These efforts are not just about protecting women and girls—they are about building a stronger, more prosperous nation for all. The economic, social, and human costs of inaction are too high, and the potential benefits of investing in gender equality are immense, not only for the individuals directly affected, but for the country as a whole.

Another joint programme discussed in the meeting is the collaboration between UNFPA, ILO, UNESCO, and relevant stakeholders to empower youth by building inclusive futures, enhancing the skills   in line with job market demand, and promoting sustainable livelihoods   in Lao PDR.

H.E Monexay Laomoaxong, Secretary General of Lao Youth Union emphasized the importance of investing in the youth who constitute 60% of the Lao population. He stated:

Equipping young people with essential skills is not vital only for personal growth but also for national development. To accelerate national growth, poverty reduction and realise inclusive growth where everyone is not left behind, Lao PDR need strong skillful workforces to drive its national development agenda and realise its commitment on sustainable development goals.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr. Bakhodir Burkhanov, UN Resident Coordinator underscored the collaborative nature of the joint programmes:

These programmes were developed in close consultation with national counterparts including relevant Lao authorities with the aim to address urgent national priorities, as well as to support Lao PDR in achieving the SDGs in a more integrated and effective way.

He also reiterated the importance of UN coordination and collective action in achieving the 2030 Agenda:“The Declaration on Future Generations reminds us that the choices we make today will shape the future. As we gather today for this joint purpose, I encourage all of us to think critically, discuss openly, and plan strategically. Above all, we must act together—leveraging our collective resources, expertise, and determination to ensure that no one is left behind and that we reach those who are furthest behind.”