(KPL) The Lao Women’s Union (LWU) held a grand ceremony in Vientiane on July 23 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of its founding—marking seven decades of tireless efforts in empowering and advancing women across the country.

The event was attended by Thongloun Sisoulith, General Secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and President of the Lao PDR, along with ministers, veteran revolutionaries, senior LWU leaders, representatives from ministries and organizations, the Vientiane administration, and the Women Entrepreneurs Association.

In her keynote address, Aly Vongnorbountham, President of the LWU Executive Committee, reflected on the union’s journey from its inception to its current nationwide presence. She underscored the vital role of women, particularly those from ethnic minority groups, in the country’s struggle for liberation, as well as in its ongoing national development cause.

Since its establishment, the LWU has convened eight national congresses and is preparing for its ninth. Over the years, successive leadership bodies have worked to represent women from all walks of life, aligning their efforts with Party resolutions and national socio-economic development strategies.

Key achievements of the Union include implementing development plans aimed at improving the quality of life for Lao women, especially through political and ideological education targeting ethnic minority women; promoting the “Three Good Competition” and encouraging the creation of “Three Good Families” and “Three Good Women’s Villages” to serve as community role models; establishing vocational training centers at central and provincial levels to boost women’s skills and economic contributions; and setting up centers for handicraft production and information dissemination in several provinces; as well as developing national action plans for gender equality, maternal and child welfare, and violence prevention to ensure the rights and safety of women and children; and expanding international cooperation through active participation in the ASEAN Committee on Women and hosting regional conferences and leadership summits.

In recognition of its outstanding work, the LWU and its leaders have been awarded numerous accolades, including national orders and awards from international partners.

During the ceremony, guests viewed a documentary tracing the Union’s 70-year legacy and enjoyed cultural performances by the Lao People’s Army Arts Troupe, as well as inspirational speeches by young revolutionaries.

A highlight of the celebration was President Thongloun Sisoulith’s presentation of the Third-Class Victorious Medal to the LWU Executive Committee, honouring its leadership and commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural traditions of the nation and the contributions of women from all ethnic groups in the Lao PDR.

The anniversary celebration reaffirmed the Lao Women’s Union’s unwavering commitment to empowering women and its continued contribution to national unity, social development, and cultural preservation.

KPL