First Exchange Meeting between Provincial People’s Assemblies of Khammouane and Luang Prabang, and Civil Society Organisations

April 03, 2024, the first exchange meeting marked a milestone in strengthening cooperation and exchange between Provincial People’s Assemblies (PPAs) and local Civil Society Organisations (CSOs). It served as a platform for fostering interaction and trust-building between PPAs and CSOs, with an emphasis on bolstering advocacy efforts and advancing gender equality and environmental protection – core priorities in supporting the development goals of the Lao PDR. The meeting was supported by the CEGGA II Programme as part of its objective to promote citizen-state interaction for inclusive sustainable development.

During the meeting, the co-chairs Mr. Somphone Sioudomphanh, Vice President of PPA Luangpabang, and Mr. Bouaphan Sengchanh, Vice President of PPA Khammouan, emphasised the official acknowledgement of the role of CSOs in the constitution. They highlighted that CSOs should be engaged in providing inputs on draft legislation and reiterated their commitment to actively involving CSOs in consultation meetings before legislation is passed. Participants actively engaged in discussions, advocating for enhanced coordination between PPAs, the National Assembly, and CSOs through the Lao CSOs Coordination Committee (LCCC) and relevant governmental bodies such as the Ministry and Provincial Departments of Home Affairs. This coordinated approach aims to facilitate meaningful dialogue and collaboration on issues affecting local communities, enabling CSOs to contribute their insights effectively.

Looking ahead, PPAs and CSOs proposed continued support from the CEGGA Programme to organise similar exchange meetings at least once a year, ensuring sustained engagement and progress towards shared objectives. This historic exchange meeting underscores the collective commitment of PPAs and CSOs to collaborative governance and community empowerment, setting the stage for a more inclusive and sustainable future of Lao PDR.

Team Europe’s CEGGA Programme is funded by Switzerland, Germany and the European Union, and is implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft fuer Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in cooperation with the Ministries of Home Affairs and Justice, the National Assembly, and the Lao CSO Coordination Committee.