Attapeu:Mrs. Bounday Thammavongsa has dedicated nearly two decades to breaking the silence on violence against women and children in Attapeu Province. As the Director of the Provincial Protection and Counseling Centre for Women and Children (PCWC), she works directly with survivors, offering support as a case manager.

According to Lao News Agency, Mrs. Bounday's involvement with gender-based violence (GBV) issues began in 2007, spurred by a distressing incident in her neighborhood. Her commitment deepened in 2017 when she joined the Provincial Lao Women's Union, furthering her efforts to protect vulnerable populations.

In 2023, a significant advancement occurred with the establishment of the Protection Centre for Women and Children in Attapeu, supported by the Lao Women's Union, UNFPA, and the Government of Japan. The center provides essential services, including temporary accommodation, counseling, legal advice, and vocational support.

Mrs. Bounday emphasizes that while the center offers vital resources, addressing underlying gender norms and power dynamics is crucial. She highlights the compounded risks posed by substance abuse and cross-border marriages, stressing the importance of prevention and community awareness.

Mrs. Bounday advocates for early intervention, urging families and communities to recognize warning signs and support women and girls in understanding their rights and available services. Her message underscores the collective responsibility to create safe environments where women can live free from violence.