UNICEF, with support from the Government of Australia and USAID, empowers the Lao Women’s Union to promote positive parenting among families across the Lao PDR

(KPL) Today, UNICEF, with support from the Government of Australia and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), contributed equipment and materials to the Lao Women’s Union to support the expansion of its 'Love and Care for Every Child' initiative. This programme aims to promote positive parenting practices among families in the Lao PDR.

These items will help social workers effectively communicate critical parenting information to both parents and caregivers within local communities, empowering them with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide nurturing care for their children.

“The parenting programme underscores the vital role of both mothers and fathers in providing supportive care for children, ensuring that they can have the best start to life,” remarked Ms. Megan Jones, the Australian Ambassador to the Lao PDR. “Australia, alongside our partners, is proud to support initiatives led by the Lao Women’s Union that not only foster a nurturing environment for every child but also promote gender equality,” added the Australian Ambassador. 

Since its inception, the 'Love and Care for Every Child' initiative has positively impacted over 40,000 families during its pilot phase. The programme is set to expand to an additional 518 villages across six provinces by 2025.

“USAID is committed to providing children with a strong beginning. We are proud of our partnership      with the Lao Government and international partners to ensure children receive the necessary inclusive services for their long-term development,” said Mr. Michael McCord, USAID Country Representative to Laos. “These partnerships are essential for creating sustainable and tangible      changes that benefit children, families, and communities across the Lao PDR,” he added.

In addition to enhancing positive interactions between parents and children, and encouraging early learning activities to stimulate children’s cognitive development, the parenting programme also provides guidance on health, nutrition, and responsive caregiving for parents.

“Early childhood is a critical period that sets the stage for lifelong development. By investing in children's early years, we are investing in the future of the nation,” said Mr. Bilal Aurang Zeb Durrani, UNICEF Country Representative to the Lao PDR. “I commend the Lao Women's Union on their leadership in this programme and would like to thank Australia and USAID for their support in this important initiative.”

The ‘Love and Care for Every Child’ initiative is led by the Lao Women's Union with technical support from UNICEF and various Ministries.  The initiative is funded by UNICEF Australia through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) and USAID.

KPL