In his message, the Prime Minister described International Children’s Day as a celebration of joy and happiness for children while also serving as an important opportunity for society to reaffirm its commitment to promoting and protecting children’s rights and fostering a safe, nurturing, and child-friendly environment for their development.

He emphasised that children are the nation’s hope, a vital driving force, and the future of the country, stressing that caring for, protecting, and creating opportunities for children is a shared responsibility of all sectors of society.

The Prime Minister noted that in Laos, International Children’s Day coincides with National Tree Planting Day, encouraging children to develop a sense of responsibility toward nature and environmental protection from an early age. He likened children to young saplings that require care, guidance, and education from parents, guardians, teachers, and society in order to grow into capable, knowledgeable, and high-quality human resources who will contribute to the nation’s future development.

The message highlighted the Party and Government’s continued efforts to advance child development through improvements in healthcare, nutrition, and education, while promoting equal opportunities for girls and boys and strengthening the protection of children’s rights.

At the same time, the Prime Minister acknowledged that many children, particularly those living in remote and rural areas, continue to face significant challenges, including poverty, school dropout, violence, early marriage, child labour, drug-related issues, climate change, and natural disasters.

He also drew attention to the growing risks associated with the use of the internet and social media in the digital era, underscoring the importance of equipping children with the knowledge and skills needed to use technology safely, responsibly, and creatively, while strengthening their ability to protect themselves from harmful influences.

The Prime Minister noted that the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children is currently developing a National Action Plan for the Promotion and Protection of Children’s Rights and a National Plan for the Prevention and Elimination of Violence Against Children for the period 2026–2030.

Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to child development, he pledged continued investment and support to ensure that all Lao children benefit from holistic development in physical health, intellectual growth, mental well-being, and moral values.

He also called on parents, teachers, organisations, communities, the private sector, and development partners to work together in promoting, protecting, and creating opportunities for every child, enabling them to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future.

KPL