CSO Fair 2023 showcases civil society’s role in Laos’ development

The fifth annual National CSO Fair 2023 kicked off in Vientiane on Saturday, highlighting the work of civil society organisations (CSOs) in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development in Laos.
The two-day fair, organised by the LCCC with support from Team Europe and other development partners, gathered more than 50 CSOs from various sectors and regions of the country.

The Organising Committee and the Ambassadors of the European Union and France to Laos attend the opening of the CSO Fair in Vientiane.

The fair attracted an estimated 1,000 visitors, including project beneficiaries, arts and handicrafts groups, networks, and government officials. It provided a platform for CSOs to showcase their work and products, and to engage with the public and other stakeholders through various activities.
These activities included traditional dance and music performances, question-and-answer sessions, panel discussions, and stage plays reflecting on social issues such as violence against women and traditional gender roles.
Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Mr Nisith Keopanya said this event was a significant step to showcase and highlight the role and value of Lao social organisations in the national protection and development mission, so that they can gain wider recognition from society.
President of the Lao Civil Society Organisation Coordination Committee (LCCC), Dr Chansy Phimphachanh, said the fair aimed to demonstrate the impactful contributions of CSOs to the country’s economic and social development, poverty reduction, and transition from an underdeveloped status by 2030.
“The fair was an opportunity for society to recognise the role of Lao CSOs and foster an environment where they can collaborate with the government and development partners,” she added.
The French Ambassador, Siv-Leng Chhuor, speaking on behalf of Team Europe, said the fair was a testament to the strong partnership between the EU, Switzerland, Germany, France and Lao CSOs.
“Promoting civil society is an essential pillar of our diplomacy and cooperation, and we, as Team Europe, strongly believe that creating more free and open spaces for civil society is key to ensure that Lao CSOs, women and youth groups have opportunities to show their capacities, dedication and contribution to the development of the country,” she said.
This year is the first time the fair will be held not only in Vientiane but also in Luang Prabang and Khammuan, in order to reach out to more CSOs and communities in the provinces. This is the fifth year that the LCCC has hosted this showcase of social organisations’ work, which started in 2018.
The CSO Fair 2023 is part of the CEGGA Programme, which is funded by Team Europe and implemented by GIZ, Oxfam and Helvetas. The programme supports the capacity development and networking of Lao CSOs, as well as their engagement in policy dialogue and advocacy.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update November 28, 2023)