Strengthening inclusive and safe development in the Lao PDR

From 17 February to 26 March 2026, a series of workshops on gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI), as well as the prevention of gender‑based violence (GBV) and sexual harassment (SH), were conducted across target locations of the Local Development Programme (LDP). The workshops also brought together participants from the Skills for tourism, agriculture and forestry (STAF) programme, the Health and nutrition programme, and the Rule of law, access to justice and good governance (ROLAG) programme.

A total of six workshops brought together senior programme advisers, provincial technical advisers, programme support teams and provincial stakeholders. They were designed and facilitated by Dr Inleusa BASENGKHAM, gender adviser for the LDP.

The workshops were conducted to strengthen participants’ understanding of inclusive development and enhance their capacity to identify and mitigate risks related to GBV and SH. Through interactive sessions, participants explored social norms, stereotypes, and safeguarding in development contexts.

Training sessions were designed for programme and counterpart agencies’ staff to build their capacity to apply a GEDSI lens to their work. Such an approach is essential to ensure development interventions are inclusive, equitable and responsive to diverse needs. The sessions also highlighted that without proper attention to GBV and SH risks, programmes may unintentionally reinforce inequalities or expose vulnerable groups to harm.

Participants expressed a heightened awareness and increased confidence in their ability to apply GEDSI principles effectively. They also emphasised their commitment to promoting safer programme implementation, ensuring that all activities are conducted with consideration for inclusivity and equity. 

This initiative reinforces LuxDev’s commitment to inclusive, safe and equitable development that leaves no one behind.

The Local development programme aims to promote sustainable, inclusive and resilient development outcomes across targeted sectors. It is co-financed by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and Switzerland and jointly implemented by the Lao Ministry of Finance (formerly the Ministry of Planning and Investment) and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.