Lao PDR (Laos)

On 1 August, campaigners in Lao PDR took part in a drumming parade and organized performances, activities, and games at the International Center for Training and Cooperation in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Regulatory Authority on UXO, and UNDP.

Activities began at 7 in the morning with a Buddhist alms-giving ceremony for 50 monks from throughout Vientiane Province, representing the estimated 50,000 victims of UXO in Laos. At the same time, a drumming parade consisting of trucks from seven UXO operators drove from Patuxay Monument to the International Center for Training and Cooperation, where Lao Youth Union drummers were also performing.

A formal ceremony was then held, with speeches from the Deputy Prime Minister, the United Nations Resident Coordinator, CMC, and a survivor. This was followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially mark entry into force. The day continued with a host of activities and games, including puppet shows, modern and traditional Lao dancing, and a wheelchair obstacle course.

Video coverage of the event filmed by the UNDP can be viewed here:

http://www.youtube.com/user/undplao#p/u/0/GcKhHR1abYE

Ms. Alex Hiniker, alex@stopclustermunitions.org, CMC

Religions for Peace, in cooperation with Norwegian Church Aid and Lao Buddhist Monks for Development, organized a workshop from 2-3 August at Wat Nakhoun Noi, in Vientiane to raise awareness about the Convention within Lao's religious communities and explore the roles that monks can play in assisting survivors with their recovery and social reintegration. It was attended by over 60 monks from across the country as well as five survivors, and enjoyed strong support from the Lao government.
Ms Allison Pytlak, apytlak@religionsforpeace.org, World Council of Religions for Peace

Deputy Prime Minister's Speech (15KB)

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