Strengthening representative leadership in Lao PDR: the ROLAG programme empowers assembly members in Bolikhamxay

In Lao PDR, the Rule of law, access to justice and good governance (ROLAG) programme, in partnership with the Bolikhamxay Provincial People's Assembly, successfully conducted a two-day capacity-building workshop for members of the 10th National Assembly representing Bolikhamxay Province, members of the 5th Provincial People's Assembly, and Secretariat staff.

The workshop was chaired by Dr Sonthanu THAMMAVONG, Secretary of the Bolikhamxay Provincial Party Committee and President of the Bolikhamxay Provincial People's Assembly. It brought together members of the national and provincial assemblies, district leaders, National Assembly resource persons and technical officials.

The programme enhanced participants' knowledge and practical skills in legislative drafting, effective meeting management, parliamentary interventions, constituency engagement, and the handling of citizens' complaints.

Dr Reginald PASTRANA, Senior Sectoral Adviser to the ROLAG programme, delivered a session on Asian best practices for effective mechanisms for receiving, processing and resolving citizens' complaints. The presentation showcased practical experiences that can contribute to strengthening citizen participation, transparency and public accountability in Lao PDR.

The workshop concluded with dynamic discussions and the exchange of experiences, equipping participants with practical approaches to further strengthen their legislative, oversight and representative functions. 

Through this initiative, the ROLAG programme reaffirmed its commitment to supporting stronger legislative institutions and advancing the rule of law, access to justice and good governance in Lao PDR.

The 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.