Lao People’s Democratic Republic vows to take steps to stop violence, commits to continued action on gender equality in national plans

Lao People’s Democratic Republic has established a national institution to promote gender equality and women's advancement. Gender equality has advanced, including in education and health, where the maternal mortality rate has declined. A National Plan of Action on Violence against Women and Violence against Children and a law on preventing violence have both been endorsed. Through 2030, Lao People’s Democratic Republic commits to continued implementation of its gender equality policy, including through national socioeconomic development plans. Speaking at the Global Leaders' Meeting on 27 September 2015, Deputy Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith said: “I would like to reiterate the commitment of the Lao PDR to continue working closely with the international community to promote and advance the role and status of women.” [Speech]