The Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare (MOLSW), in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), hosted the first-ever National Symposium on Social Protection, focusing on challenges faced by the rural population and informal workforce. Held on July 31, 2024, at the International Convention and Training Centre, the event brought together over 250 participants, with support from the European Union and the Government of China.

Vice Prime Minister Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune highlighted the need to strengthen social protection as Laos recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable groups, particularly in the agrarian economy. The symposium, themed “Protecting Informal Workers and Rural Dwellers under the National Social Protection Strategy,” included panel discussions, role plays, and exhibitions, providing insights into social protection benefits and policy developments.

UN Resident Coordinator in Laos, Bakhodir Burkhanov, and ILO Country Director, Xiaoyan Qian, stressed the role of social protection in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the need for increased domestic financing to ensure the sustainability of social protection initiatives. With 86% of the workforce in agriculture, forestry, and fishing, Laos aims to enhance social protection under its National Social Protection Strategy, ensuring access to essential services for all citizens by 2030.