Decree on Wetlands.

The Lao Decree on Wetlands establishes a legal framework for the sustainable management, conservation, and utilization of wetland areas across the country. It defines wetlands broadly, including rivers, lakes, marshes, floodplains, and man-made reservoirs, and emphasizes their ecological, social, and economic importance. The Decree aligns with international commitments such as the Ramsar Convention.
Key provisions cover classification, mapping, and registration of wetlands, as well as obligations for protection, restoration, and sustainable use. It sets rules for land-use planning, infrastructure development, and economic activities within wetland zones, requiring environmental impact assessments and permits. The Decree also outlines responsibilities for government agencies, local authorities, and stakeholders, including monitoring, enforcement, and penalties for violations.