Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone delivers a message to mark International Children’s Day.

PM calls for stronger action to ensure a bright future for children

The Prime Minister has called for stronger action to protect and support children, saying they are the future of Laos and must be equipped to overcome growing challenges.
In a message to mark International Children’s Day on June 1, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone urged all sectors of society to work together to ensure that children grow up in safe, supportive, and child-friendly environments.
“Every child represents our hope, our vital force, and the future of the nation,” the Prime Minister was quoted as saying. Every child  is an inheritor of the country’s future and an important force in driving national development, he said.
The Prime Minister extended his warm wishes to children and young people of all of ethnic groups, including those studying and living abroad, on behalf of the Party and State leadership and in his personal capacity.
He said International Children’s Day is not only a day of joy and happiness for children, but also an opportunity for society to reflect on the importance of safeguarding children’s rights and improving their quality of life.
The Prime Minister noted that Laos observes International Children’s Day alongside National Arbour Day, a tradition that encourages children to develop a sense of responsibility towards nature and the environment from an early age.
“Children are like seedlings that need care, nurturing and guidance from parents, guardians, teachers, and society in general,” he said.
Children need support and guidance to help them resist harmful influences and grow into capable citizens who can contribute to the country’s future, he added.
The Prime Minister said the Party and government have prioritised the development of Lao children in recent years through investments in health, nutrition, education, gender equality, equal opportunities for girls and boys, and the protection of children’s rights.
But he acknowledged that significant challenges remain, particularly for children living in remote rural areas.
He cited poverty, school dropouts, violence against children, early marriage, child labour, drug abuse, climate change, and extreme weather events as continuing threats to children’s wellbeing and development.
The Prime Minister expressed concern about the impact of the digital age, warning that children face increasing risks from internet use and social media.
As part of efforts to strengthen child protection, the Prime Minister said the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children is preparing a National Action Plan to safeguard children’s rights, and a separate plan to prevent and eliminate violence against children for 2026-2030.
On behalf of the government, he reaffirmed a commitment to creating opportunities for every child to develop physically, intellectually, emotionally and morally.
“The government will continue to invest in and create conditions for every Lao child to develop holistically,” he said.
The Prime Minister called on parents, teachers, organisations, communities, businesses and development partners to cooperate in supporting the development and protection of children and creating quality opportunities for future generations.
In his Children’s Day message, he wished children across Laos good health, happiness, and success in their studies, encouraging them to dream big, love their families and country, and grow into an important force in efforts to build a brighter future for Laos.
He expressed hope that International Children’s Day 2026 will be meaningful and bring joy and happiness to children throughout Laos.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update May 1, 2026)