(KPL) The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), in collaboration with the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Department of Social Welfare under the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, is convening a two-day workshop on Disability-Inclusive Early Warning Messaging in Vientiane, beginning today.

The Lao PDR faces increasing risks from hydro-meteorological hazards—such as storms, floods, droughts, and heatwaves—intensified by climate change. The 2024 floods, which severely impacted Luang Namtha, underscored the urgent need for robust and inclusive disaster preparedness systems. Ensuring early warning messages reach everyone, including persons with disabilities, is not only essential for saving lives but also for building national resilience and strengthening the government’s capacity to protect all citizens.

The workshop stems from findings in the Early Warning Systems Perception Survey report, which emphasized the need for inclusive and accessible communication systems. The report revealed that many persons with disabilities in the Lao PDR encounter serious challenges in receiving, understanding, and acting on early warning information. These communication gaps pose risks not only to individuals but also to the broader emergency response capabilities of communities.

“At the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, we are committed to making our forecasts and warnings more inclusive and accessible,” said Mr. Bounteum Sysouphanthavong, Deputy Director General. “We recognize that persons with disabilities face additional challenges during disasters. This workshop is an opportunity to learn, collaborate, and improve our systems so that no one is left behind.”

This initiative supports the Lao PDR’s commitment to Article 11 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which calls for the protection and safety of persons with disabilities in situations of risk, including natural disasters. It also contributes to the country’s Early Warnings for All Roadmap, which aims to develop inclusive, people-centered warning systems by 2027.

“The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, Sustainable Development Goal 11, the Incheon Strategy Goal 7, and Article 11 of the Convention all underscore the importance of involving persons with disabilities in preparedness and response efforts,” said Mr. Kindavong Luangrath, Deputy Director General of the Department of Social Welfare. “This consultation is vital for sharing best practices, identifying barriers, and advancing solutions to ensure comprehensive access to information for all.”

“It is encouraging to see such diverse representation here today—from government bodies, civil society, organizations of persons with disabilities, UN agencies, and development partners,” said Mr. Vingthong Chanthavong, Operations Manager at the Disability Mainstreaming Advisory Service. “Understanding the unique barriers faced by individuals with various disabilities allows us to develop effective communication tools for use in emergencies.”

Mr. Naoki Maegawa, WFP Deputy Country Director and Representative a.i., concluded: “As the world’s largest humanitarian agency, WFP is committed to leaving no one behind in times of crisis. In Lao PDR, we are working with the Government to build systems that address climate and other risks, ensuring equal access to life-saving, timely, and actionable information. This workshop is a testament to our shared commitment to inclusive emergency preparedness.”

KPL