Fourth-Five Year National Plan of Action on Gender Equality (2021-2025).

The Fourth Five-Year National Plan of Action on Gender Equality (2021–2025) builds on previous plans and aligns with Lao PDR’s obligations under Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), the Beijing Declaration, and SDG 5. The overall goal is to guarantee the rights and development of gender equality, including the ending of all forms of violence against women in all areas, ensuring that women can fully participate in activities of politics, economics, socio-cultural aspects and family affairs. The Plan emphasizes improving data systems, raising awareness, and creating enabling environments for equal access to education, healthcare, employment, and justice. It also addresses poverty reduction, climate change resilience, and prevention of violence against women and girls.
The policy document outlines four main work plans: (1) dissemination and database development, (2) promoting gender equality in education, health, and economic empowerment, (3) reviewing and implementing legislation and international commitments, and (4) strengthening organizational structures and personnel. Key targets include increasing women’s representation in leadership roles to 30%, expanding vocational training, enhancing IT and leadership skills, and implementing at least 50% of CEDAW recommendations.