Lao PDR
Lao PDR is navigating social and economic transition, and lasting progress depends on stronger institutions, increased opportunity, and solutions grounded in Lao realities.
We work with government, civil society, communities, and regional partners to support more responsive institutions, expand opportunity, and help communities shape solutions to the challenges they face. In Lao PDR, we draw on long-standing local relationships and more than six decades of experience to connect national priorities with community needs—while opening new pathways to a more peaceful, just, and prosperous future.
Impact
Businesses and 68 government departments
Directly consulted on Lao PDR’s national economic planning (10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan, 2026–2030) with 200+ policymakers participating in economic policy planning.
Lao MSMEs trained in digital skills
Small businesses across Lao PDR strengthened their digital skills and business competitiveness through the Go Digital ASEAN program, while 2,700+ users—56% women—accessed 24,000+ free digital learning lessons on the ToolaKit app.
Citizens accessed free legal support
Between 2019 and 2024, thousands of citizens received free legal assistance on issues including land disputes and family law, with 280+ justice officials nationwide trained on village mediation systems. Supported the development of the Legal Aid Decree, promulgated in 2018, and the Village Dispute Mediation Decree, signed by the prime minister in 2021.
People benefited from wetland conservation efforts
Community river basin management initiatives strengthened water governance in Lao PDR, including training 300+ local officials and community members and conserving 30 hectares across Mahaxai and Xebangfai districts.
Lao-language children’s books made freely available
Through the Let’s Read platform, children across Lao PDR accessed culturally relevant Lao-language storybooks, including 71 stories written by Lao children and youth. Reading activities also engaged 1,557 children, 65 teachers, and 710 parents and caregivers, helping strengthen literacy and reading culture nationwide.
Rural women supported in STEM education
Provided scholarships and training to pursue STEM degrees through our partnership with the National University of Laos since 2011. To date, 91 percent of graduates have secured employment in science, engineering, IT, banking, and education sectors.
FEATURED PROGRAM
Strengthening Justice Systems to Expand Legal Access
Featured Programs
Community River Basin Management
With economic growth increasing demands on Lao PDR’s rivers, we help communities and local agencies protect water resources that sustain health, commerce, and livelihoods.
Helping Government Address Citizen Priorities
To make public decisions more responsive to citizens’ needs, we help Lao PDR’s assemblies use evidence and outreach to strengthen laws and services.
Advancing Sustainable and Accessible Infrastructure in the Mekong
The Mekong Safeguards Program works with governments, regional organizations, the private sector, and civil society to strengthen environmental and social safeguards for energy, transport, and water infrastructure.
Amplifying Women’s Peace Actions
TAF’s AMPLIFY program helps women and local organizations in Southeast Asia bring their knowledge and priorities into peace and security decisions that too often exclude them.
Latest Thinking
Study
Lao PDR: Civil Society Organization and Community Scoping Study
Study
Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar: Civil Society Organization and Community Scoping Study
Report
Securing Women’s Peace: A Political Economy Analysis of Women, Peace and Security in ASEAN, Cambodia, Lao PDR, and the Philippines
Factsheet
Sustainable Finance Tutorial: Environmental & Social Considerations
Country Leadership
CONTACT US
The Asia Foundation in Laos
laos.general@asiafoundation.org
+856 (21) 454-300