(KPL) The Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) marked the 60th anniversary of its membership in the International Labour Organization (ILO) on 5 December 2024. This milestone celebrates six decades of collaboration to advance decent work, social justice, and sustainable development.

Joining the ILO on 23 January 1964, Lao PDR has made significant strides in improving workers' rights and fostering social and economic progress. The anniversary ceremony in Vientiane brought together government officials, representatives of employers' and workers' organizations, and ILO dignitaries to commemorate the occasion.

ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo praised the partnership in a video message, stating “On this special occasion, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to our constituents for their exceptional collaboration, partnership and commitment to advancing decent work and social justice.”

Deputy Prime Minister Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune reaffirmed the Lao government's dedication to the ILO’s principles, saying "On behalf of the Lao Government, I reaffirm our commitment to implementing ILO conventions, especially those we have ratified. We will continue working with tripartite partners to explore the adoption and ratification of additional conventions relevant to Lao workers."

Minister of Labour and Social Welfare, Mdm. Baykham Khattiya, highlighted the ministry’s role in fostering harmonious labour relations: "The Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare plays a vital role in safeguarding the rights and benefits of workers and employers. Significant progress has been made in integrating ratified conventions into our policies, laws, and regulations."

Mr. Vilay Vongkhaserm, Vice President of the Lao Federation of Trade Unions, emphasized the ILO’s consistent support: "The ILO has worked closely with us on projects promoting decent and fair work, ensuring the protection of workers' rights, benefits, and justice, particularly in social protection, security, and healthcare."

Mr. Xaybandith Rasphone, Vice President of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, underscored the importance of global standards: "We are grateful for the ILO's support in promoting decent work and aligning Lao laws with international conventions. A key focus remains on occupational safety and health (OSH)."

Over the past 60 years, Lao PDR has ratified 12 ILO conventions, including 7 fundamental ones, significantly strengthening labour protections. Key milestones include Legislative Advancements: Enactment of a landmark Employment Law in 2023, with ILO support, aligning social protection and health insurance laws with international standards, Skills Development: Creation of National Skills Standards and support for vocational education reforms through South-South Cooperation with China, Combatting Child Labour and Promoting Fair Migration: Implementation of regulations to enhance labour migration governance and tackle child labour, Entrepreneurship Promotion: Programs supporting micro and small enterprises, raising awareness about social protection rights among workers and employers.

“ILO will certainly provide ongoing support to the Lao PDR during this journey. We pledge to work together towards achieving decent work, social justice and ensuring no one is left behind,” said Xiaoyan Qian, ILO Country Director for Cambodia, Lao People's Democratic Republic and Thailand.

KPL