To celebrate International Children’s Day this year, the Government of the Lao PDR, UNICEF, development partners, and children united to promote child rights and welfare under the theme “A Better Future for Every Child.”
The pinnacle of the celebrations was the two high-level events organised in Vientiane and Attapeu Province. In Vientiane, nearly 300 people, including children, youth, and a delegation led by the Government of the Lao PDR and development partners, gathered at Nongkhamsan, Hadxayfong district.
To kick-start the celebrations, children performed a traditional Lao dance. This was followed by children presenting their views and vision on four selected topics, namely child marriage, online media, road accidents, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The seedling of a tree was planted to symbolize the nurturing of children and investment in the future.
“Children are the future of the Lao PDR. Just like the seeds we are planting today, investment in our younger populations will bring positive results for many years to come. As the Lao PDR is set to graduate from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2026, we must focus on empowering children and youths to be productive members of society as we transit into a new stage of national development,” said Deputy Prime Minister, Chairperson of the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children (NCAWMC) Mr. Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune.
Additionally, an exhibition was set up by the youth representatives to raise awareness on topics relevant to them, such as the prevention of violence against children, reproductive health and birth registration among others, with Vientiane Mayor Mr. Athsaphangthong Siphandone leading all participants on a booth tour.
The celebrations in Attapeu province focused on child marriage prevention as it remains one of the more prominent issues. Children and youth had been discussing over the past week issues concerning them, before presenting their views with recommendations to the visiting Government officials and representatives.
Performances of traditional dance, theatrical play, singing, and an ethnic costume show were done by children to showcase their artistic talents and cultural roots, in front of nearly 400 guests.
“Today reminds us of the importance of putting children first. We must continue to work together to ensure that families and children are protected from violence and other harmful practices. All children should have a childhood filled with love and care. The NCAWMC extend our sincerest thanks to UNICEF and all development partners for the ongoing support in protecting and supporting Lao children, including the most vulnerable,” said President of the Lao Women’s Union and Vice Chair of the NCAWMC Ms. Inlavanh Keobounphanh.
The COVID-19 pandemic has unleashed irreversible impacts on the world over the course of two years. In the Lao PDR, countless families faced unprecedented challenges. The pandemic risks increasing levels of harmful practices, such as child marriage and child labour, as a way to combat economic distress. Nationwide school closure hindered children’s learning and threatened their psychosocial well-being, while disruption of health and social services left those in need more vulnerable than ever.
However, under the leadership of the Government of the Lao PDR, the country is reopening with adequate safety measures to protect the people of the Lao PDR. “As we move towards a post-pandemic world, we must ensure that children and parents are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to overcome challenges and realize their full potential. The International Children’s Day marks a great opportunity to reinforce our commitments to re-imagine a better future for every child, who will be the leaders of our world,” said UNICEF Representative a.i. to the Lao PDR Ms. Beate Dastel.
The series of events are organized with support from UNICEF, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), ChildFund, and the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
Source: Lao News Agency