Vientiane:Laos has officially endorsed a National Action Plan aimed at promoting safe, orderly, and legal migration. The endorsement ceremony took place on November 10, 2026, and was co-chaired by Anoupharb Vongnorkeo, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Tanja Pacifico, Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for the Lao PDR and Thailand. The event was attended by more than 70 representatives from government agencies, UN organizations, international organizations, and other relevant sectors.

According to Lao News Agency, the Lao PDR is a country of origin, transit, and destination for international migrants. The action plan is designed to ensure that migration occurs through safe and legal channels while protecting the rights of migrant workers. Developed with support from IOM, the plan outlines nine strategic areas addressing both cross-cutting and sector-specific priorities.

The action plan's vision is to maintain migration as a choice and ensure that all workers have access to decent work and social protection. This endorsement is a significant step towards implementing the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration within the context of Laos's national development priorities.

Vice Minister Anoupharb, speaking at the ceremony, emphasized that migration has historically contributed to Laos's socio-economic development. He noted that effective migration management is crucial for human resource development and the country's sustainable growth. The plan's implementation aligns with Laos's 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan for 2026-2030 and the nation’s efforts to transition from Least Developed Country status by November 2026.