Ms Phetsamone Sone, Head of Lao Statistics Bureau, standing member of National Steering Committee for 5th PHC, Dr. Bakhtiyor Kadyrov, UNFPA Representative, co-chaired the closing ceremony of the two-week-long data processing training, which was held from 16-26 June, 2026 with technical support from UNFPA and development partners.

“The training aimed to strengthen the capacity of LSB staff in methodologies and practices for data editing and processing using AI through hands-on opportunities with an international expert. These methodologies included data editing, imputation, coding, and validation of the extensive datasets collected during the nationwide field enumeration at the end of 2025 and the Post Enumeration Survey (PES) conducted in March 2026. In the training session, trainees also learned how to use AI in data editing and processing," said Ms. Phetsamone.

Se further noted that training on data analysis will be conducted in July under the LSB- UNFPA work plan. The completion of these training will pave the way for the preparation of the comprehensive report on the 2025 PHC findings, which are expected to be released over the next few months, she added.

The Lao PDR launched nationwide field data collection for the first-ever digital census from 3 November to 28 December 2025, following four years of extensive planning and logistical preparations. The census was implemented, with technical support from UNFPA and financial and technical contributions from key development partners, including the Australian Government through DFAT, China Aid, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), Luxembourg Development Cooperation, the United States of America, and GIZ.

The 2025 PHC aimed to provide the most comprehensive and up-to-date snapshot of Lao PDR’s population, demographic trends, and housing conditions. The data will serve as an important foundation for evidence-based policymaking, development planning, resource allocation, and the monitoring of progress towards national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals and other strategic development commitments.

On 30 April 2026, the National Steering Committee for the 2025 PHC convened to review progress in the implementation of the census. The committee also called on the LSB and its partners to maintain momentum in data processing and analysis to ensure timely release of high quality census results to the public.

Mr Lienthong Souphany, Director General of Economic-Social Statistic Department, Lao Statistic Bureaus, Ministry of Finance said that following the completion of nationwide field data collection at the end of 2025 and the PES in 2026, the 2025 PHC has reached its final phase. During this period, the data collected will be used for analysis and the development of the census findings report, which is expected to be disseminated in the near future.

"The 2025 Population and Housing Census has progressed in line with international standards and objectives outlined despite various challenges encountered throughout its implementation. The successful completion of each phase reflects the strong commitment, partnership and collaboration among the Government of the Lao PDR, UNFPA, development partners, and all stakeholders involved. The census results will provide critical evidence to inform national development planning, policymaking, and resource allocation," Mr Lienthong who also serves as Head of the Census Central Office said.

The UNFPA Representative, Dr. Bakhtiyor Kadyrov, welcomed the significant progress achieved over the past several years and reaffirmed UNFPA’s continued commitment to supporting the Government of the Lao PDR throughout the census process. He emphasized that UNFPA remains a long-standing partner in ensuring the successful completion of the census and the timely dissemination and use of high-quality census data to inform evidence-based policies and development planning.

"As we move closer to completing the 2025 Population and Housing Census, we are reminded that a census is ultimately about people. Behind every data point is a person, a family, and a community. The census provides critical evidence to inform policies and guide investments, and support development decisions that improve the lives of all people in the Lao PDR, particularly women, girls, young people, older persons, and those who are often left behind. By ensuring that everyone is counted, we can better ensure that everyone is seen, heard, and included in the development journey," he said.

KPL