Government, mass organisations and UNICEF strengthen collaboration to improve child health in Lao PDR

Vientiane Capital, 18 March 2026 – Government leaders, mass organisations, provincial representatives, UNICEF and development partners gathered today in Vientiane Capital for a national workshop to strengthen collaboration on child health and immunisation in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

The workshop, “Promoting Child Health through Strengthened Media and Community Engagement,” was organized with participation from the Lao Front for National Development, the Party Central Committee for Propaganda and Training, the Ministry of Health, the Lao Women’s Union, UNICEF and other partners. Discussions focused on the importance of communication, community mobilisation, and cross-sector collaboration in improving child health outcomes across the country.

“Protecting children’s health requires collaboration across sectors and at every level of society,” said H.E. Dr. Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune, President of Lao Front for National Development. “Through the networks of the Lao Front and mass organisations, community leaders can play an important role in mobilising families, addressing misinformation and strengthening trust in health services so that every child receives life-saving vaccines.”

Participants reviewed the current child health and immunisation situation in Lao PDR, discussed ways to address misinformation, and explored how community leaders and mass organisations can help strengthen public trust in health services and vaccines.

“Immunisation is one of the most effective ways to protect children from life-threatening diseases,” said H.E. Dr Phayvanh Keopaseuth, Vice Minister of Health. “The Ministry of Health remains committed to strengthening vaccination services and ensuring that every child in Lao PDR, including those in remote communities, receives life-saving vaccines.”

The workshop also highlighted the importance of community engagement in supporting the national polio vaccination campaign, following the successful completion of the first round earlier this year.

“Protecting children’s health requires trusted information and strong community engagement,” said Mr. Sakhone Phommalath, Vice Head of the Party Central Committee for Propaganda and Training. “Through coordinated communication and mobilisation, we can help families understand the importance of staying health and being immunized.”

The campaign is being implemented by the Government of the Lao PDR with support from UNICEF, WHO, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, and KSrelief.

“UNICEF is proud to work alongside the Government of Lao PDR to improve child health and support the country’s future development,” said Mr. Bilal Aurang Zeb Durrani, UNICEF Country Representative to the Lao PDR. “Vaccines are among the most effective ways to protect children’s lives, and sustained joint efforts are essential to ensure that every child is reached.”

The workshop concluded with commitments from provinces to strengthen community engagement, communication channels and coordination mechanisms in support of immunisation campaigns and broader child health efforts.