PM calls for stronger protection of children’s rights

Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has urged state agencies, communities, families and development partners to strengthen efforts to protect and promote the rights of children across Laos.
He made the call on the occasion of International Children’s Day on June 1, which is observed annually to promote children’s wellbeing and highlight the need for a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for every child.

Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone.

In Laos, June 1 also marks National Arbour Day, reflecting the government’s long-standing commitment to link environmental protection with children’s education and social responsibility.
This dual celebration is intended to raise awareness about the importance of both caring for nature and investing in the next generation.
The Prime Minister emphasised the need to create more opportunities for children to access quality education, healthcare and information, while ensuring their safety from all forms of violence, abuse, exploitation and neglect.
He noted that while progress has been made in recent years, children in Laos still face numerous challenges, including poverty, violence, illegal labour, prostitution, early and hidden marriage, school dropout, exposure to harmful online content, and risks from drug use and climate change.
To tackle these issues, the government has introduced various policies and laws to protect children. One of the most significant steps is a ban on physical punishment, such as caning, which is included in the Law on the Protection of the Rights and Interests of Children.
This made Laos the first country in the ASEAN region and the 66th in the world to take such legal action.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with all sectors—ministries, local authorities, mass organisations, the Lao Front for National Development, civil society groups, the private sector, and families—to create a nurturing environment for children to grow into responsible and capable citizens.
He said the focus will remain on providing children with access to knowledge, skills, healthcare, good nutrition and safe living conditions, while also promoting their participation in community and national development.
This year’s International Children’s Day is observed under the theme “Empowering Every Child: Equal Rights, Safe Futures”, which reflects the global call to ensure that every child is treated equally, protected from harm, and supported to reach their full potential.
The Prime Minister extended best wishes to all Lao children and young people of every ethnic group, both in Laos and abroad, encouraging them to grow into valuable members of society and shape a bright future for the nation.
In 2024, Laos hosted the 8th ASEAN Children’s Forum, where child representatives from ASEAN member countries gathered to share their views on regional challenges.
Lao children actively participated in discussions on climate change, justice, and protection from violence.
Their input contributed to the ASEAN Children’s Statement and upcoming regional plans, including the 2026–2035 strategy on ending violence against children.
Three Lao children were selected to join the ASEAN consultation meeting to draft the new regional plan, marking a proud moment for the country’s efforts to support child participation in policymaking.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update June 2, 2025)