Ministerial Decision No. 0483/MONRE on Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA).

This Ministerial Decision establishes the principles and procedures for Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) within the Lao PDR. It mandates that environmental considerations be integrated into the formulation and review of national policies, strategies, and socio-economic development plans. The goal is to ensure sustainable development by identifying potential environmental impacts at the highest levels of decision-making, rather than just at the individual project level.
Specifically, the Ministerial Decision defines the roles of various sectors and local authorities in conducting SEAs and monitoring their implementation. It requires that SEA reports be reviewed and certified by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) to ensure technical quality and compliance with national standards. Furthermore, it emphasizes public participation and inter-ministerial coordination to balance economic growth with ecological protection and social well-being.