Peaceful and inclusive societies (in the form of cooperation outside the agreed core areas) Promoting dialogue and participation

While Laos is gaining in economic importance, political participation by the general population remains extremely limited. Structures that enable equal access to government services and legal support are lacking, for example. Against this backdrop, Germany is supporting a project aimed at fostering interaction between the government and the people of Laos and advancing inclusive development long-term.

Laos is a single-party state in which, for a long time, political participation was restricted. Pressure on the government is growing to strengthen the rule of law and give the citizens of Laos a greater voice. However, central institutions such as courts, parliaments and administrative authorities often have limited capacity. Civil society organisations are still underdeveloped and often face administrative hurdles in carrying out their work. In rural areas in particular, many people have little or no access to legal advice or political decision-making processes. Women and vulnerable groups are especially affected.

Project goal

The project will run until the end of 2026 and intends to foster dialogue between the government and citizens. The aim is both to cement political progress and to shape it in such a way that all members of society – particularly vulnerable groups – can participate on an equal basis.

Processes and priority areas

The programme is improving dialogue between civil society organisations (CSOs) and government institutions by introducing digital solutions for registering CSOs efficiently, bolstering CSOs as development partners and assisting them in engaging local communities.
It aims to promote processes within the National Assembly and the People’s Provincial Assemblies that are responsive to citizens’ concerns. To this end, the project is fostering public engagement with gender-sensitive digital tools and improving the availability of information on equality, social inclusion, environmental action and the rights of vulnerable groups.
By measuring demand for financial support for legal proceedings and specifically addressing women and vulnerable groups, the project is seeking to strengthen access to justice. The project is also promoting legal training and raising awareness for the principles of the rule of law among public administrations.