President of the Lao Journalists’ Association, Mr Savankhone Razmountry, speaks at the opening of a workshop on the reporting of environmental issues.

Reporters get lessons in raising public awareness of environmental issues

More in-depth reporting on environmental issues enables the public to access accurate information and play a greater role in protecting the environment, thus supporting the government’s long-term green development goals.
This was the message from the President of the Lao Journalists’ Association, Mr Savankhone Razmountry, when speaking at a workshop titled “Training Green Issues Reporting to Citizen Journalists Under the Green Action through Mass Media Organisations and Civil Society”.
The training session took place in Vientiane on May 11, bringing together 45 participants selected from nearly 200 applicants.
Mr Savankhone said the workshop was vital as environmental challenges grow, noting that information spreads faster through digital platforms.
“For this world to sustain itself, the environment and climate must be safe,” he said, adding that all citizens now have a role in sharing useful and accurate information to support national development.
Organised with support from the Department of Mass Media, the training session aimed to build skills in digital reporting, including the use of artificial intelligence and online tools to produce engaging content.
Mr Savankhone said the workshop reflected a major shift in the media landscape, where people are no longer just consumers of information but also producers.
“It is no longer the case that only one group sends news while others receive it,” he said, adding that Lao citizens have the right to share useful information responsibly and contribute to national development.
The programme aimed to equip participants with a deeper understanding of government policies on environmental protection and sustainable development, as well as the legal framework guiding reporting.
This includes knowledge of rights and responsibilities under the law when creating and sharing content online.
Deputy Director of the Department of Mass Media, Mr Somsack Sakounkham, said participants were selected based on their potential to influence wider audiences, and encouraged them to apply their knowledge to promote environmental protection.
Project Manager of the GAMCIL project, Ms Bouakham Douangpanya, said all content produced must meet strict standards and be based on credible sources, in line with guidance from relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.
She said the aim is not only to inform but to engage the public, especially young people, through creative formats that make environmental issues easier to understand and share.
The training session also introduced participants to the Media Law and national policies on environmental protection, helping them understand their rights and responsibilities when producing and sharing content.
Organisers said the programme is part of a wider project running from 2023 to 2027, with this year marking a key phase in delivering activities.
Participants are expected to produce and share “green” content after the training, helping to increase public awareness and support Laos’ long-term environmental goals.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update May 13, 2026)