Representatives from Laos, Thailand and Vietnam attend the forum in Vientiane on Tuesday.

Regional reporters get lessons on green issues reporting, digital literacy

The Lao Journalists’ Association in cooperation with CARE International in Laos on Tuesday hosted a regional forum on “Green Issues Reporting and Digital Literacy” in Vientiane.
The forum was organised in anticipation of the 75th Mass Media Day on August 13 this year.
The event took place under the auspices of the Green Action through Media, Mass Organisation and Civil Society in Laos (GAMCIL), supported by the European Union.

The forum is an important activity under the 2nd annual project implementation plan, and is the first regional event to be held with the participation of journalists from Laos, Thailand and Vietnam.
President of the Lao Journalists’ Association, Mr Savankhone Razmountry, said “The main aim of the forum is to provide an opportunity for Lao journalists and the media to learn more about the use of information communication technology in the world, in the region, and in Laos, which has a direct impact on press and media work.”
“Lao journalists and all media personnel must learn to adapt to the current and future digital eras and know how to use new tools to be able to produce news and distribute news faster than before and using more diverse platforms, so as to meet the demands of news consumers and society in the best way.”
Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Mr Phosy Keomanivong said “The media plays a crucial role in disseminating information to society, which has reflected both positively and negatively on the daily life of people in the digital era with competition to develop communication systems and connect information through both hardware and software without borders and limits.”
“The media must pay special attention because finding information and disseminating information is easy, fast and reaches many groups at the same time, especially through social media,” Mr Phosy added.
Country Director of CARE International to Laos, Ms Keoamphone Souvannaphoum, said “This forum directly supports our climate strategies and goals by strengthening the capacity of journalists to report effectively on these complex issues. By fostering digital literacy, we can ensure that these vital stories reach a wider audience, utilising the most effective communication channels available.” “We believe that by working together, we can amplify the voices of those most affected by climate change and create a more sustainable future for all.”
EU Ambassador Mark Gallagher said “Through the GAMCIL project, in partnership with CARE and the Lao Journalists’ Association, we aim to strengthen professional journalism, enhance digital literacy, and equip civil society actors to engage in policy dialogue on green development.”
“By providing training, resources, and a platform for collaboration, this project helps ensure that Lao journalists and citizen-journalists can effectively report on environmental challenges and green policies.”

By Siladda Suliyong
 (Latest Update February 26, 2025)