Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone (center).

Women’s Union marks 70 years with equality push

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to poverty eradication and gender equality, with a renewed focus on gender-responsive financing and institutional reforms for women, Lao Women’s Union (LWU) President Aly Vongnobountham has said.
Mrs Aly, who is also Standing Vice President of the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children, made the comment during an event in Vientiane on Thursday to mark the 70th anniversary of the Union.
The dignitaries included Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, President of the Lao Front for National Development, Mr Sinlavong Khoutphaythoune and other senior officials.
The celebration paid tribute to the legacy of Lao women’s contributions to Laos’ liberation, development, and progress.
Addressing the event, Mrs Aly stressed the urgent need to strengthen institutions and align development strategies with gender equality goals.
Laos has a longstanding commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls. These principles have been integrated across all sectors of development planning, forming a central pillar of the country’s inclusive policy framework, she said.
From Laos’ early struggle for independence to its current socio-economic development efforts, women from all ethnic groups have played vital roles alongside men, driven by deep patriotism and resilience, she added.
The multi-day celebration featured a wide array of activities aimed at honouring the past, showcasing present achievements, and reinforcing the Union’s mission for the future.
LWU leaders delivered presentations on the Union’s formation and growth, emphasising the cultural values and key contributions of Lao women throughout the decades.
More than 700 participants attended seminars on issues such as women’s health, with a focus on the prevention and treatment of breast and cervical cancer, gender roles in business, environmental protection, youth protection, and intellectual property rights.
Attendees also enjoyed stage performances and a fashion show featuring ethnic attire modelled by young people, celebrating the rich diversity and identity of Lao women.
Under the theme “70 Years of Victory”, a nationwide blood drive collected 108 bags of blood. The initiative saw participation from members of the Lao Women’s Union, ministries, business employees, and the general public.
Ophthalmologists were also on hand to provide free vision tests.
The Lao Women’s Union is currently preparing for the upcoming 9th National Congress of Lao Women’s Delegates. The event will set new directions for the continued advancement of women’s rights and further integration of gender perspectives into national development strategies.
The Union’s 70th anniversary celebrations are particularly special as they coincide with three other important national anniversaries, namely the 70th anniversary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, the 50th anniversary of the Lao PDR’s establishment, and the 105th birthday of the revered President Kaysone Phomvihane.

By Phetphoxay Sengpaseuth
 (Latest Update July 11, 2025)