Vientiane: The Lao Women’s Union (LWU) held a ceremony in Vientiane to commemorate the 70th anniversary of its founding, marking seven decades of efforts in empowering and advancing women across the country.

According to Lao News Agency, 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, and representatives from various ministries, 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 and its current nationwide presence. She emphasized the role of women, particularly from ethnic minority groups, in the country’s struggle for liberation and ongoing national development.

Since its establishment, the LWU has convened eight national congresses and is preparing for its ninth. The 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 include implementing development plans to improve the quality of life for Lao women, promoting political and ideological education targeting ethnic minority women, and encouraging community role models through initiatives like the ‘Three Good Competition’. The LWU has also established vocational training centers, set up centers for handicraft production and information dissemination, and developed national action plans for gender equality and violence prevention.

The LWU and its leaders have received numerous accolades, including national orders and awards from international partners, recognizing their contributions.

During the ceremony, guests viewed a documentary on the Union’s 70-year legacy and enjoyed cultural performances by the Lao People’s Army Arts Troupe. President Thongloun Sisoulith presented the Third-Class Victorious Medal to the LWU Executive Committee, honouring its leadership and commitment to cultural traditions and the contributions of women from all ethnic groups.

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