Children express their voices through art at the “Building and Reimagining a Greener and Safer Post-Pandemic World for Lao Children” Exhibition.

Vientiane, Lao PDR - 22 February 2023 - UNICEF, in partnership with the Lao Youth Union and the Australian Government, hosted an art exhibition at the French Institute in Vientiane Capital to commemorate International Children’s Day. The exhibition, titled "Building and Reimagining a Greener and Safer Post-Pandemic World for Lao Children," showcased over 50 artworks that were part of the art competition, which received over 200 submissions from primary and secondary school children across Lao PDR.

As the world grapples with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial to empower children and young people to become advocates for their future. In light of this, UNICEF and its partners launched the art competition to encourage Lao children and youths to imagine a brighter, greener and safer world beyond the pandemic.

The exhibition was opened by Mr Monexay Laomoaxong, Secretary General of Lao’s People Revolutionary Youth Union, Dr Pia Britto, UNICEF Representative in Lao PDR and Lauren Sewell, Second Secretary of the Australian Embassy in Lao PDR.

"We were delighted to see so many inspiring artworks from Lao children," said HE. Monexay. "It is clear that Lao children and young people care deeply about the environment and their future, and we hope that this exhibition will inspire more children to become advocates for change."

The art exhibition was open to the public from 22 to 28 February 2023. It featured a variety of artworks, including paintings, drawings, and collages, all created by Lao children aged between six to 18. The six winning artworks were chosen by a panel of judges and were awarded prizes during the opening ceremony.

In her opening remarks, Dr Britto highlighted the importance of empowering children to become changemakers in their communities: "Through this art competition, we want to give Lao children a platform to share their creative ideas and help them shape their future."

The art competition and exhibition were made possible with the support of the Australian Government, which has a long-standing partnership with UNICEF and Lao Youth Union to improve the lives of children and young people in Lao PDR.

"The Australian Government is committed to supporting the Lao Government in strengthening health security and promoting economic recovery. Through this exhibition it is evident that Lao children care deeply about their future and the environment they will inherit." said Ms Sewell from the Australian Embassy.

The exhibition does not only celebrate International Children’s Day but also serves as a reminder of the importance of working together to create a greener and safer world for all children, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.