(KPL) The Women’s Union of the Commission for Information and Education of the Party Central Committee on March 5, 2026 held a ceremony to mark the 116th anniversary of International Women's Day under the theme “Justice and Rights: Taking Action for All Women and Girls.”

The event was chaired by Ms. Vilavone Phanthavong, Member of the Party Standing Committee and Vice Head of the Commission, and attended by members of the Women’s Union executive committee and female staff from across the organization.

In her address, Ms. Vilavone highlighted the historical origins of International Women’s Day, recalling that the movement emerged during a period of industrial expansion when female workers endured long working hours, low wages and unsafe conditions without adequate legal or social protection.

She noted that women united to demand equal rights, fair labor standards, healthcare protection for mothers and children, and an end to war and injustice. The movement culminated in the 1910 International Women’s Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, where March 8 was officially designated as International Women’s Day.

The commemoration also featured a presentation by Ms. Chansouk Phommavanh, President of the Women’s Union of the Commission, who disseminated key resolutions from the 9th National Congress of the Lao Women’s Union.

To celebrate the occasion, the Commission organized sports competitions to promote solidarity and teamwork among staff, drawing enthusiastic participation from multiple departments.

Organizers said the event reaffirmed the important role of women in national development and underscored continued commitment to advancing gender equality and empowerment in Laos.

KPL