Vientiane: The National Commission for the Advancement of Women and Mother-Children (NCAWMC) convened a meeting on February 24 in Vientiane to bolster initiatives aimed at enhancing the rights and welfare of women, mothers, and children.
According to Lao News Agency, Ms. Chansoda Phonethip, Vice President of NCAWMC and Vice President of the Lao Women’s Union, represented the Chairperson of NCAWMC at the seminar. She outlined the seminar’s objectives: to increase awareness, improve understanding, and strengthen the execution of policies that support gender equality and the advancement of women, mothers, and children in Lao PDR.
Ms. Chansoda highlighted that the seminar coincides with the Party and the State’s active implementation of the 9th Five-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan (2021-2025). As part of NCAWMC’s duties, the commission is preparing to evaluate the progress of three significant national action plans: the National Action Plan for Gender Equality, the National Action Plan for Mothers and Children, and the National Action Plan to Prevent and Eliminate Violence Against Women and Children.
She also mentioned the importance of the forthcoming open meeting of NCAWMC, planned for the end of March 2025, which will provide a forum to review the commission’s progress and activities over the past year.
Ms. Chansoda expressed her appreciation to all participants, recognizing their dedication and accountability in promoting gender equality and the welfare of mothers and children. She acknowledged that while mechanisms are in place, there are still challenges in coordinating across various sectors.
She stressed that promoting women’s advancement and achieving gender equality are societal duties that must progress alongside national socio-economic development. Institutions, including the National Assembly, the Lao Women’s Union, and NCAWMC, have distinct roles but share the common objective of advancing gender equality in Lao PDR.
Ms. Chansoda emphasized the seminar’s role in fostering awareness and providing representatives with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively implement gender equality initiatives. By integrating the Party’s policies into their respective sectors, participants can help achieve the objectives set for women’s advancement and equal rights.
The one-day seminar features presentations on key documents related to gender equality, the rights of women and children, and relevant national and international laws. Participants will also engage in discussions on best practices, share experiences, and explore strategies to improve collaboration for the effective implementation of gender equality and child welfare initiatives going forward.