Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone visits an exhibition of products made by Lao women at the Lao-ITECC.

Lao Women’s Union celebrates 70 years of progress, unity and empowerment

This story marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the Lao Women’s Union, founded on July 20, 1955

A cross the country, from the hills of Huaphan to the streets of Vientiane, celebrations are underway to honour the women of Laos and their seven-decade journey of strength, perseverance and achievement.
The Lao Women’s Union (LWU), established on July 20, 1955, is commemorating its 70th anniversary with a renewed call for solidarity, development and equality for women of all ethnic groups.

Mrs Aly Vongnorbountham.

Since its founding, the LWU has grown into a powerful national movement that advocates for women’s rights, supports national development, and preserves the cultural traditions that make Laos unique. Today, its legacy is visible in every corner of Lao society, from rural development projects to Parliament seats, from schools to markets, and from family homes to international forums.
Speaking at a major commemorative event held earlier this month at the Propaganda and Training Committee of the Party Central Committee, the President of the LWU, Mrs Aly Vongnorbountham, delivered a powerful address to more than 200,000 members of the Union nationwide. The celebration of the establishment of the LWU is being held at a time when the Lao people are commemorating the important days of Lao history, including the founding of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party on March 22, 1955, 50 years of the founding of the Lao PDR on December 2, 1975, and 105 years of the birthday of President Kaysone Phomvihane in 2025. 
“Over the past 70 years, the achievements of Lao women in all sectors have been countless. We could spend a whole month remembering them and still not cover everything,” Mrs Aly said with a warm smile. “Lao women have preserved our good traditions, upheld the spirit of Lao culture, and stood firm in support of national development.”
Mrs Aly emphasised that Lao women, particularly those from ethnic groups and rural communities, have always played a critical role in the country’s progress, often working silently behind the scenes to support both their families and the nation.
Despite facing a range of difficulties from limited access to education and healthcare in the past to economic challenges today, Lao women have made remarkable strides in recent decades.
“In recent years, women have taken on increasingly important roles in society,” Mrs Aly noted. “We now see more women holding leadership positions, participating in policy-making, running businesses, and leading change in their communities.”
This progress is especially significant, considering that many Lao women, particularly in rural and remote areas, continue to face traditional and structural barriers. Yet, through the support of the LWU and government policies focused on gender equality, doors are opening like never before.

President of Phubia Coffee Sole Co., Ltd, Mrs Sunatta Litpanya, presents a basket of Phubia Coffee to former President of the Lao Women’s Union, Mrs Inlavanh Keobounphanh.	Mrs Aly Vongnorbountham and Lao women delegates attend an international conference in a foreign country.

To celebrate the Union’s 70th anniversary, LWU chapters in all provinces organised a range of activities aimed at honouring women’s achievements and inspiring the next generation. These events included traditional sports competitions, educational workshops, leadership training sessions, and trade fairs that featured locally made products of women entrepreneurs.
In Vientiane, the Lao-ITECC centre hosted a week-long celebration earlier this month that drew thousands of visitors. People benefited from free eye check-ups, browsed stalls showcasing traditional hand-woven textiles, tasted local food prepared by women’s cooperatives, and joined forums on health, education and gender equality.
“The activities were not just about celebration – they were educational and empowering,” said Ms Viengsamay, a young university student who attended the fair. “I learned about the rights of women, how to start a small business, and even got my eyes checked for free.”
A central attraction of the fair was the display of traditional Lao skirts or Sinh woven from silk and cotton, using age-old techniques passed down through generations. These garments symbolised the connection between modern Lao women and their cultural heritage.
In addition to public events, the LWU encouraged media professionals to highlight the untold stories of women who have quietly made a difference in their communities. A journalist representing the media sector shared her perspective: “I contribute by writing news and features that shed light on the achievements of women. So many outstanding women have made significant contributions, but their stories are often left untold. I see it as my responsibility to give them a voice.”
From nurses working in remote clinics to farmers leading organic agriculture cooperatives, from single mothers managing households to teachers educating the next generation, Lao women are the invisible backbone of the country.
Looking forward, Mrs Aly outlined the Union’s commitment to continuing its work with renewed strength. “The Lao Women’s Union will work harder than ever to protect the rights and interests of women and children while preserving the values that make us who we are,” she said.
Mrs Aly reaffirmed that the LWU will continue its efforts to promote unity among all ethnic groups, enhance educational opportunities, expand economic participation, and improve healthcare access for women.
“The Party has always recognied that women are not only beneficiaries of development, they are agents of change. Women are essential to every field of work,” she said. “It is through their unity that we can build a peaceful and progressive nation.”
Throughout its 70-year history, the LWU has worked closely under the leadership of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP), adhering to its principles and policies. The Union is considered a vital mass organisation within the political system, functioning as a bridge between the Party and the people.
“The LWU is a flag of unity and progress, connecting women of all backgrounds and building solidarity based on shared values and goals,” Mrs Aly said.
Since 1955, the Union has carried out a dual mission – preserving cultural identity while actively engaging in socio-economic transformation. From the revolution period to modern day reforms, the Union has adapted its strategies to meet the changing needs of women.
Beyond national borders, the LWU is building stronger connections with international women’s organisations and development partners. Through cross-border collaboration, the Union shares best practices, gains new insights, and finds innovative ways to support Lao women in a rapidly changing world.
“We are committed to deepening our international partnerships,” Mrs Aly said. “By sharing experiences and learning from others, we can make even greater progress for women in Laos.”
As the LWU marks this historic milestone, it stands not only as a symbol of past achievement but also as a beacon for the future. In every province, district and village, the voices of Lao women, once silent, are now rising with confidence and pride.
Their journey is far from over, but the foundation is strong. With unity, courage and vision, Lao women are writing the next chapter in a story that began 70 years ago – and is only just beginning.

by Phon Thikeo
 (Latest Update July 24, 2025)