President Thongloun Sisoulith (centre left) presents a Certificate of Congratulations to the President of the Lao Women’s Union, Mrs Aly Vongnobountham, along with a Class III Issara medal (Medal of Liberty)

President urges women to uphold cherished traditions for benefit of future generations

President Thongloun Sisoulith has called on women nationwide to continue their efforts in steadfastly preserving the nation’s fine traditions, to ensure these are perpetuated by successive generations.
His message serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of intergenerational transmission of culture.
The President highlighted women’s important role in society when speaking at an event on Wednesday to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Lao Women’s Union on July 20, 1955.
On the same occasion, he presented a Class III Issara medal (Medal of Liberty) to the President of the Lao Women’s Union,  Mrs Aly Vongnobountham, as well as a Certificate of Congratulations.  
President Thongloun said the values, customs, and special characteristics that define Lao identity are not merely relics of the past but living principles that shape the present and guide the future.
The President’s message underscores the vital role that women play in safeguarding Laos’ cultural heritage and ensuring its continuity.
He highlighted the significant contributions of Lao women throughout history in nurturing families, fostering community spirit, and passing down invaluable knowledge and practices.
By continuing to embody and teach these traditions ranging from traditional arts and crafts, culinary practices, and social etiquette, to the core tenets of respect, compassion, and community solidarity, Lao women ensure that the next generations grow up with a strong sense of identity and belonging, he said.
The President’s remarks resonate deeply within Lao society, where the family unit and community bonds are paramount.
As custodians of cultural wisdom, Lao women are seen as key figures in instilling these values in young people, preparing them to be responsible citizens who honour their roots while embracing future challenges.
The government acknowledges the indispensable role of Lao women in shaping the nation’s social fabric and ensuring a vibrant future for all, President Thongloun said.
Also speaking at the event, the President of the Lao Women’s Union and Vice Standing President of the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children, Mrs Aly Vongnobountham, stressed the urgent need to strengthen institutions and align development strategies with gender equality goals.
Laos has a longstanding commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls. These principles have been integrated across all sectors of development planning, forming a central pillar of the country’s inclusive policy framework, she said.
From Laos’ early struggle for independence to its current development efforts, women have played vital roles alongside men, driven by deep patriotism and resilience, she added.
Events to celebrate the Lao Women’s Union’s 70th anniversary aim to honour the past, showcase present-day achievements, and reinforce the Union’s mission for the future.
LWU leaders delivered presentations on the Union’s formation and growth, emphasising the cultural values and key contributions of Lao women throughout the decades.
The Lao Women’s Union is currently preparing for the upcoming 9th National Congress of Lao Women’s Delegates.
The gathering will set new directions for the continued advancement of women’s rights and further integration of gender perspectives into national development strategies.
The Union’s 70th anniversary celebrations are particularly special as they fall alongside three other important anniversaries this year, namely the 70th anniversary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, the 50th anniversary of the Lao PDR’s establishment, and the 105th birth anniversary of the revered President Kaysone Phomvihane.

by Phetphoxay Sengpaseuth
 (Latest Update July 24, 2025)