Mr. Chairman,

1.At the outset, my delegation congratulates you and the Bureau on your election and assures you of the Lao PDR’s full support and cooperation. We align ourselves with the statements delivered by the distinguished representatives of Malaysia on behalf of ASEAN, and Iraq on behalf of the Group of 77 and China.

Mr. Chairman,

2.We are at a critical juncture where the international community is facing multifaceted global challenges, including the severe impact of climate change and natural disasters, economic and financial setbacks, and food and energy insecurity. These issues not only impede socioeconomic development but also widen existing inequalities, pushing vulnerable groups especially women, children, and persons with disabilities into extreme hardship.

 

3.In this challenging time, the Lao PDR believes it is more critical than ever for the international community to ensure that all vulnerable groups play a pivotal role in recovery and sustainable development efforts. This requires intensified international cooperation in the spirit of openness, inclusiveness, partnership, solidarity, and mutual support. It is also of particular importance to build resilience to climate change, and to strengthen social protection, healthcare, and education services, with the ultimate goal of empowering and protecting women and girls in all spheres.

 

Mr. Chairman,

4.It is our firm belief that gender equality is not only a fundamental human right but also a necessary foundation for building a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable society. As a party to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and other international human rights instruments, the Lao PDR attaches great importance to the advancement of women, ending gender-based violence, and supporting women’s full participation in inclusive social and economic development. These principles have been incorporated into our national legislation and policy planning processes.

5.The National Commission for the Advancement of Women and Mother and Child (NCAWMC) has played a key role in promoting and protecting the rights of women and girls. With the continued support of our development partners and UN agencies, we have implemented key national strategies and plans, including the 4th National Plan of Action on Gender Equality (2021-2025). We have also recently formulated and endorsed the Standard Operating Procedures to systematize social service responses to gender-based violence.

 

Mr. Chairman,

6.Despite global challenges and the severe consequences of natural calamities like widespread flooding, my country has made steady progress. Guided by our 9th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (NSEDP), National Strategy 2025, and Vision 2030, the Lao PDR has prioritized inclusive growth, social protection, and poverty eradication. Our progress can be seen in four key areas:

First: Poverty reduction: Our third Voluntary National Review in 2024

showed a decline in the multidimensional poverty rate, reflecting our efforts to reduce inequalities and improve livelihoods, particularly in rural areas.

Second: Education: Reforms are underway to raise the Human Asset Index, which is crucial for our graduation from LDC status. We are investing in higher standards, teacher training, and expanded access for disadvantaged children.

Third: Healthcare: We are expanding social protection through free vaccination programs, pilot projects for free medical care for the elderly and marginalized groups, and free treatment for pregnant women and children under five. And

Fourth: Persons with disabilities: Since ratifying the CRPD, we have adopted a National Plan of Action 2030 and amended relevant legislation. With the support of UN agencies including UNICEF and UNDP, we are expanding rehabilitation, vocational training, and livelihood opportunities.

We have also introduced and expanded targeted social protection programs, such as conditional cash transfers and the National School Meals Programme, which have improved our outreach to rural and vulnerable populations.

 

 

Mr. Chairman,

7.This year marks the final year of implementing our 9th Five-Year NSEDP. Looking ahead, the draft 10th NSEDP (2026–2030) sets out six strategic goals: building a self-reliant economy; developing high-quality human resources; raising living standards with balanced urban-rural progress; safeguarding the environment and climate resilience; strengthening connectivity and integration; and improving governance and justice.

 

8. In closing, the Lao PDR reaffirms its commitment to the global efforts for the advancement of women, the promotion of gender equality, and the protection of the rights of all vulnerable groups. We stand ready to work closely with UN agencies, and all our partners to build a more just, peaceful, and prosperous world for all. 

 

Thank you