(KPL) On 26 February 2026, during the National Red Cross Review Meeting for 2025 and the 2026 Direction Plan, Mr Sonexay Siphandone, Member of the Party Central Committee Political Bureau and Prime Minister, emphasised that the Lao Red Cross (LRC) must focus on strengthening comprehensive leadership.

The Prime Minister directed LRC leadership at all levels to take ownership in guiding the mindset of Party members and staff. He stressed the need for a deep understanding of Party policies—particularly the resolutions of the 12th Party Congress and the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan—and urged their translation into practical action. He further called for operations to be accessible, transparent, and systematically auditable as the organisation moves towards full professionalisation.

The Prime Minister highlighted several critical areas to strengthen the LRC’s specialist work and social impact, including public awareness, humanitarian services, and health and safety. He urged the LRC to increase the dissemination of legislation and the organisation’s role to ensure the public understands its humanitarian mission. He also called for improvements in primary relief efforts, emergency rescue, and disaster risk reduction, noting these as fundamental human rights. Furthermore, he encouraged the promotion of community-based basic health and the ensurance of a safe, steady blood supply.

Budget and Resource Mobilisation

Regarding finances, the Prime Minister noted that the organisation must secure an adequate budget by coordinating closely with relevant sectors. He stated that funds must be allocated to provide urgent material and emotional support to disaster victims, the impoverished, people with disabilities, and those in remote areas.

He called on the organisation to increase efforts to mobilise assistance from both domestic and international partners, ensuring all aid is used transparently to alleviate the burden on the government budget.

Voluntary Blood Donation

Prime Minister Sonexay identified voluntary, non-remunerated blood donation as a vital pillar of society. He emphasised the necessity for all sectors and individuals to collaborate to promote donation and raise awareness among the youth regarding the importance of saving lives.

KPL