Sweden has supported Laos with development co-operation for more than 30 years. Now that the co-operation is being phased out, it is important that this is done responsibly.
Up until 2011, the projects and programmes that have received support will gradually be phased out. The ambition is to find new partners for those that require continued support.
Sweden’s long-term development co-operation with Laos will be documented and analyzed so that Sida and other players can learn from the experience. This work will be complete in mid-2010.
Environmental protection management for sustainability
Laos is rich in natural resources. Sweden is working so that these resources can be utilized sustainably to meet the needs and rights of the people. This particularly applies to the poorest Laotians.
To establish long-term improvement, Sweden is supporting the development of well-functioning environmental protection management through the environmental organization IUCN. Work is also underway to implement a national strategy for the forestry sector.
Steps towards a more democratic society
The situation regarding human rights in Laos has improved. But many large deficiencies remain. Sweden is making several contributions to improve governance and to increase respect for human rights.
The National University of Laos, NUOL, has received support to create a legal institution. Competence among teaching staff has improved thanks to co-operation with Umeå University, while faculty management has also become better.
Another area that has received support is provincial radio. In a co-operation with Sveriges Radio, eight provincial radio stations are given modern technical equipment, while reporters and technical staff receive further training.
Roads to the market
Poor roads – or the complete lack of them – make it difficult for people in rural areas to meet their basic needs. Getting to the market, school or the hospital is a major worry for many.
Their daily lives could be made easier with better infrastructure.
We are therefore working to maintain and to expand the road network in rural areas. This operation will end in 2010. The World Bank, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and several bilateral players, especially neighbouring countries such as Thailand, Vietnam and China, will continue to support the sector.
Better teachers mean better schools
There is a major lack of qualified teachers in Laos. Sweden is contributing to a higher level of education in the country by improving teacher training. We are also working to improve the status of teachers and to improve the working conditions, particularly in the rural areas.
When Sweden’s co-operation with Laos has been phased out, other donors will continue the work, principally UNICEF and Australia.
No development without knowledge
Research is an important part of helping a country combat poverty. Statistics and scientific information are needed to make the right decisions.
We are supporting the creation of a national research system in Laos. University employees have the opportunity to study at a foreign university and can then pass their acquired knowledge and experience on to their universities in Laos.
