Laos Unites to End Online Violence Against All Women and Girls
(KPL) On November 25, 2025 – Lao Women’s Union (LWU), the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mother and Child (NCAWMC), the Ministry of Technology and Communications (MTC), and the United Nations in Lao PDR, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office (UNRCO), jointly launched the 2025 global campaign of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence under the national theme “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.”
The launch opened with a powerful message from the Prime Minister of Lao PDR, reaffirming the highest level of national commitment to eliminating all forms of gender-based violence—offline and online.
At the UN House, hundreds of participants lit candles, standing together to call for a safer digital and physical world for every woman and girl.
This year’s theme highlights the urgent need to address Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV)—an increasingly common form of violence affecting women and girls of all ages. TFGBV includes: online harassment, cyberstalking, threats and abuse, non-consensual sharing of intimate images, deepfakes and digitally manipulated content, doxxing and digital surveillance.
These acts severely impact the mental health, dignity, safety, and public participation of survivors. Many are left isolated, fearful, and silenced—leading to long-lasting consequences for their wellbeing and their rights.
Mr Santisouk Simmalavong, Vice-Minister of Technology and Communications, said: "On behalf of the Ministry of Technology and Communications and the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children, I hereby confirm our commitment to ensuring the fulfillment of the Government’s obligations and to serving as a strong partner with all development partners in the prevention and elimination of digital violence against women and girls.”
Ms Phasouk Vongvichith, Vice President of LWU noted on the Opening of 16 DOA, “TFGBV affects women and girls from every background. Many remain silent out of shame or fear. Through the 16 Days campaign, we aim to break this silence, amplify survivors’ voices, and strengthen national systems that protect their rights.”
Mr. Bakhodir Burkhanov, UN Resident Coordinator in Lao PDR, highlighted the UN’s united support: “Online spaces must be safe spaces. The UN stands firmly with the Government of Lao PDR to ensure that women and girls can learn, work, express themselves, and participate in public life—free from digital violence.”
Dr. Bakhtiyor Kadyrov, UNFPA Representative in Lao PDR, reaffirmed UNFPA’s support to the government of Lao PDR to prevent all forms of TFGBV: “The Government of Lao PDR’s decision to sign the UN Convention against Cybercrime shows a strong national commitment to protecting every person online. Safe digital environments matter for all, including persons with disabilities and LGBTIQ, because what happens on a screen has very real consequences for dignity, confidence, and participation.”
The event brought together students, ministries, diplomatic missions, youth groups, women’s organizations, persons with disabilities, and development partners.
Activities included: a theater performance by Lao youth showing the emotional impact of cyberbullying, a fashion show featuring messages of resilience and digital safety, podcasts with young activists and influencers, and interactive digital installations, including a giant phone screen and computer backdrop where participants shared experiences and messages of solidarity.
The UNiTE Walk show, a symbolic call for dignity and safety, invited participants to reclaim the online spaces where women and girls, persons with disability and LGBTIQ are too often silenced.
UNFPA, together with development partners, expressed deep appreciation for the Government’s leadership, especially NCAWMC, the Lao Women’s Union, and the Ministry of Technology and Communications, for their commitment to building a safer digital environment for all.
This year’s launch reaffirmed that combatting TFGBV requires unity, bravery, open dialogue, strong laws, digital literacy, and survivor-centered services.
The 16 Days of Activism campaign runs from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (Human Rights Day).
Throughout these two weeks, activities will take place across the country, including school workshops, digital safety awareness events, community dialogues, university debates, and youth-led advocacy actions.
Together, Laos stands united to ensure that every woman and girl—online and offline—lives free from violence, discrimination, and fear.