Vientiane: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Laos, serving as Chair and Secretariat of the National Regulatory Authority for the UXO/Mine Action Sector, organized a ceremony on April 1, 2026, to commemorate the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action. The event, held in collaboration with the Lao People’s Revolutionary Youth Union, was supported by the Government of Ireland and the United Nations Development Programme. It gathered government officials, diplomats, representatives from UN agencies and international organizations, and students from five secondary schools.
According to Lao News Agency, Thongly Sisoulith, Secretary of the Executive Committee of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Youth Union, was present at the event. Moukdavanh Sisoulith, Director General of the International Organizations Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Head of the NRA Secretariat, highlighted that the United Nations designated April 4 in 2005 to raise awareness about the dangers of unexploded ordnance (UXO).
This year’s theme, ‘Invest in Peace, Invest in Mine Action,’ underscores the importance of continuous support for mine action initiatives. The event emphasized youth engagement, featuring practical demonstrations of survey and clearance techniques conducted under strict safety standards. Educational sessions addressed the history of UXO contamination in Laos, the Convention on Cluster Munitions, risk education, and victim assistance.
The celebration also serves as a precursor to a significant international event. Laos is set to host the Third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions from September 13 to 18, 2026, in Vientiane. Hosting the conference is described as a ‘return to the home of the Convention,’ since Vientiane held the first Meeting of States Parties. The event is expected to bolster Laos’ leadership in humanitarian efforts and attract international funding and technical support to tackle the remaining UXO challenges.
To further encourage youth participation, the NRA Secretariat launched a nationwide painting competition titled ‘Messages to the Past and Future.’ The competition is open to artists and young individuals aged 9 to 35, with entries accepted until July 19, 2026. Winners will receive scholarships valued at 10 million kip.