Lao PDR

Lao PDR has taken major steps forward in creating a national framework for global partnerships for development, including a commitment to e.g. good governance and poverty reduction.

Civil society organizations can now legally register as independent actors in the country, and community radio frequency gives a voice to those previously unheard.  

Legislation allowing not-for-profit organizations to officially register was passed in 2009, with UNDP supporting the drafting of the Decree from 2007 onwards.

In practice, new legislation means that many civil society organizations can register in the country and through that receive funding from local and foreign sources, thus helping to deliver services related to achieving the MDG’s.

Currently, seven applications for registration are being reviewed by the government. Adopting the Decree on Associations is a major milestone. Previously, people have participated mainly via semi-governmental mass organizations.  

Adding to good governance and access to information, the first community radio started broadcasting in 2007 in Khoun District, Xieng Khouang Province. The radio broadcasts in three different languages (Lao Loum, Hmong and Khmu) and is entirely run by volunteers.

People are making programmes for people, reaching those living in remote areas with no or very difficult access to information, especially ethnic people and vulnerable groups.

In addition to giving a voice to the people, information shared on the community radio frequency has had an impact on i.e. the rate of child vaccinations, amount of deliveries assisted by skilled health-care personnel, and understanding of more productive farming methods. The radio is popular: the station received over 7266 phone calls and 3430 letters in its first year of operations.

UNDP has supported the establishment of the radio, trained trainers and radio volunteers and networked with other media actors, and will continue to scale-up the experience in four other poor districts of the country. At the same time, two new community radios have started broadcasting after finding inspiration from the first community radio.

The Community Radios also provide possibilities for sharing information on the new civil society legislation. Receiving information might encourage new not-for-profit organisations to register and start operating towards the shared development goals of the country.