Laos hosts regional trade union forum

The Lao Federation of Trade Unions (LFTU) is hosting the inaugural International Solidarity Cooperation and Coordination Meeting (ISCCM) in Vientiane from May 12-13.

Representatives of trade unions and international organisations from Vietnam , China , Japan , Australia , Malaysia , Singapore , the Philippines and Thailand are attending the meeting

“This is a meeting of the utmost importance for the LFTU and Lao workers, because it's an opportunity for the Lao labour movement to learn and develop strategies to strengthen workers' rights in Laos ,” LFTU President Vongphet Xaykeryachongtoua said.

Mr Vongphet, on behalf of the LFTU, expressed his deep gratitude and heartfelt thanks to the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour, All-China Federation of Trade Unions, International Labour Organisation, Australian People for Health, Education and Development Abroad, and other international organisations for their cooperation and assistance.

The Vietnam General Confederation of Labour is assisting the LFTU with short and long term personnel capacity building projects. It has donated 22 sewing machines and equipment to the LFTU's Haeng Ngane newspaper. It has also co ntributed 6 billion dong (about 5.2 billion kip) for the construction of a vocational training centre in Laos .

The All-China Federation of Trade Unions has provided vehicles and technical assistance to grass-roots level trade unions in remote areas. It has donated 40 bicycles and 50 sewing machines and provided training on trade union leadership.

The LFTU's strategic plan for trade union development focuses on capacity building in grass-roots trade unions. Priorities include expanding membership, recruiting more unionists and developing members' skills.

The federation needs to be strong, relevant and have its voice heard to ensure the protection of the rights and interests of Lao workers and ensure justice for all working people throughout the country, LFTU Vice President Mr Khamla Lolonsy said.

To ensure success, the federation has developed a strategic plan, which consists of six active plans comprising 19 projects, Mr Khamla said.

The six plans cover the education and training of workers; protecting and furthering the rights and interests of working people; social and economic management; maintaining and building relationships; cooperating with international trade union organisations; and increasing the strength of the LFTU as an organisation to fight for workers' rights.

As part of the government's poverty eradication strategic plan to reduce poverty rates to 39 percent by 2010 and eliminate poverty by 2020, officials plan to increase per capita gross domestic product to US$500-US$700 by 2010 and to US$800-US$1,200 by 2020, with a targeted economic growth rate of 7.5 percent per annum.

By Khonesavanh Latsaphao
(Latest Update May 13, 2008)