The government is encouraging all sectors to focus on supporting women and their role in socio-economic development.


Standing Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad.
About 60 government representatives attended a meeting of the Lao National Commission for the Advancement of Women yesterday in Vientiane to discuss gender issues and the need for them to be reflected in government policy.

The objective of the two-day seminar is to help participants understand the potential of women to address development issues in each ministry and improve cooperation and coordination on policy formation.

Commission President and Standing Deputy Prime Minister, Somsavat Lengsavad, opened the event.

“Women are a great asset in the development of every sector, particularly the government's poverty reduction plan.” Mr Somsavat said.

He said the government believed it was the duty of ministries, organisations and local administrative offices to formulate and implement a strategy to support gender equality in their respective sectors.

Raising awareness about gender issues for relevant sectors and the public can improve the understanding of women's role in society.

Mr Somsavat said each sector should try to improve women and children's skills by providing equal access to education and public heath services for women, increasing the role of women in the policy-making process, and encouraging national organisations to protect rights and advance the promotion of women at all levels.

Government organisations in the capital and in the provinces have been encouraged to provide gender equality in recruitment processes to ensure women are well-represented. This should help in the development of sound policy, he said.

The Lao National Commission for the Advancement of Women was established in 2003.

An official decree is expected to be formulated after the seminar to reflect the consensus reached in discussions.

The Lao National Commission for the Advancement of Women is the focal point for gender mainstreaming in government, and also monitors the implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

It is also responsible for coordinating with national and international organisations on implementation of gender policy.

By KHAMPHONE SYVONGXAY
(Latest Update August 21, 2008)