PM calls for better development, protection of children

Prime Minister Phankham Viphavanh has called for joint efforts by all stakeholders to create conditions and opportunities for the better development of children.
The premier made the remarks in a message he delivered to mark the International Children’s Day, which falls on June 1.
On this occasion, Mr Phankham, on behalf of the Party and government leadership and on his own behalf, extended greetings to all children around the country.

Mr Phankham underlined pressing threats that hinder the development of children. The existing threats include the Covid-19 outbreak, poverty, malnutrition, negative impact of social media use, high rate of school dropouts, early marriage and drug abuse.
He said such issues are “the threats that restrict the development of children”. In light of these issues, the premier called for all sectors of society to increase their efforts and contribute actively to address such matters.
“In particular, attention should be paid to healthcare for children amid the Covid-19 outbreak,” he said.
In addition, he called for creating conditions and opportunities for the development of Lao multiethnic children to reach their full potential and become quality human resources for the nation.
Over the past few years, the Party and government have attached great importance to protecting and promoting the rights of children, and creating conditions and opportunities for their development.
There has been progress in this regard, and this is reflected by the fact that the third national five-year action plan for mothers and children for 2021-2025 and the second national five-year action plan on elimination of violence against women and children for 2021-2025 have been promulgated. These frameworks have contributed to women and children enjoying better protection, with their rights promoted.
The achievements have been made possible by the contribution and hard works of all sectors, especially the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children, and its subordinate bodies, state bodies at all levels, mass organisations, international organisations, businesses and individual parents, he said.
Mr Phankham wished all the children good health and happiness, and asked them to be good students.
To celebrate International Children’s Day, the Lao government, UNICEF, development partners and children on Wednesday came together to promote the rights and welfare of children under the theme “A Better Future for Every Child”.
The pinnacle of the celebrations was two high-level events organised in Vientiane and Attapeu province. In the national capital, nearly 300 people, including children, youngsters and a delegation led by the Lao government and development partners, gathered at Nongkhamsan in Hadxayfong district.
To kick start the celebrations, children performed a traditional Lao dance. This was followed by children presenting their views and vision on four topics - child marriage, online media, road accidents, and the Covid-19 pandemic. A sapling was planted to symbolize the nurturing of children and investment in the future.
The International Children’s Day coincides with the Lao National Arbour Day, which is marked by the planting of saplings throughout the year.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update June 2, 2022)