Building a future-ready Lao PDR National Assembly with AI and digital innovation

More than 150 members of the 10th National Assembly from all 18 electoral constituencies across Lao PDR gathered in Vientiane Capital from 25 to 28 May 2026 for a four-day seminar aimed at strengthening parliamentary knowledge, leadership and legislative effectiveness. The event brought together national and international experts, including a contribution from the Rule of law, access to justice and good governance (ROLAG) programme implemented by LuxDev, as part of ongoing efforts to support institutional capacity development and good governance in the Lao PDR.

The seminar was officially opened and chaired by H.E. Sounthon XAIYACHAK, Vice President of the National Assembly, who emphasised the importance of equipping members with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively fulfil their constitutional mandates. With nearly 80% of the current National Assembly members serving their first term, he highlighted the timeliness and strategic value of structured capacity-building initiatives.

The programme brought together former leaders of the 9th National Assembly, national experts and international specialists to share practical experiences and insights on parliamentary responsibilities, legislative oversight, representation and governance. 

As part of the intersession programme, Dr Reginald PASTRANA, Senior Sectoral Advisor of the ROLAG programme, delivered a session on digital governance, artificial intelligence (AI), and the future of parliamentary work. The presentation explored how emerging technologies are reshaping public administration and parliamentary institutions worldwide, while highlighting opportunities for the National Assembly to leverage digital innovation to enhance legislative processes, public engagement and evidence-based decision-making.

The session provided members with forward-looking perspectives on the responsible use of AI and digital tools in support of more efficient, transparent, and responsive governance.

In the closing remarks, H.E. Sounthon XAIYACHAK encouraged participants to actively apply the knowledge gained through the seminar, strengthen exchanges of experience, and continue developing their capacities in order to better serve and represent the rights and interests of the multiethnic Lao people.

Through its contribution to the programme, LuxDev reaffirmed its commitment to supporting institutional strengthening, digital transformation and good governance in the Lao PDR.

The Rule of law, access to justice and good governance (ROLAG) programme is financed by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and jointly implemented by the Ministry of Education and Sports, the Ministry of Justice, LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency, ILSTA and the University of Luxembourg.