Decision on the Appointment of the Steering Committee and Coordinating Committee of the Wildlife and Forestry Law Enforcement Network (LAO-WEN), No. 2239/MAF.

This Decision establishes the institutional framework for the Lao Wildlife Enforcement Network (LAO-WEN) to strengthen enforcement of the laws on aquatic animals, wildlife, and forestry. It aims to enhance inter-agency coordination, prevent and suppress wildlife and forest-related crimes, and improve compliance with national legislation and international commitments.
The Decision creates a Steering Committee and a Coordinating Committee composed of senior representatives from forestry inspection, police, customs, prosecution, border forces, anti-corruption bodies, financial intelligence, and other relevant agencies. Their mandates include developing action plans, revising legal instruments, facilitating information exchange, and promoting cooperation at central and provincial levels. More specifically, the committees are tasked with coordinating investigations, reporting quarterly and annual enforcement results, supporting transnational cooperation, organizing meetings and training, and submitting consolidated reports to the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to ensure effective implementation nationwide.