Context
The Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) is working to enhance good governance, with the aim of ensuring adherence to the rule of law and democratic principles. To this end, by changing the law the state wants to involve civil society better in the development dialogue with government decision-makers.
Objective
Citizen–state interaction is enhanced for inclusive and long-term national development in Lao PDR.
Approach
The project achieves its objectives by means of the following measures:
1. Improving dialogue between civil society organisations and state institutions
The project supports civil society organisations (CSOs) as development partners. It provides advice on making CSO registration easier and facilitates spaces for interaction between CSOs and the state.
2. Promoting citizen-oriented procedures within the National Assembly of Lao PDR and provincial parliaments
The project develops gender-equitable digital processes and expertise on equal opportunities, social inclusion, environmental protection and the rights of vulnerable groups.
3. Improving citizens’ access to justice
The project ensures that data collection about legal assistance needs is improved. It also develops strategies regarding how to better reach women and vulnerable groups. It promotes citizen-oriented provision of legal advice during legal training, and raises the public administration’s awareness of the principles of the rule of law.
The project is cofinanced by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and the European Union.