Laos Steps Up Efforts to Increase Women’s Representation Ahead of 10th National Assembly Elections

Vientiane: As the Lao PDR prepares for the election of the 10th National Assembly and the 5th Provincial People's Assemblies, renewed efforts are underway to increase women's representation in political leadership, with a target of ensuring that women account for at least 30 percent of elected representatives nationwide. According to Lao News Agency, on January 28, 2026, Ms. Thoummaly Vongphachan, Chairperson of the Female National Assembly Members' Committee and Chairperson of the Justice Committee, highlighted the importance of strengthening women's participation in politics. This initiative aligns with Directive No. 26 of the Politburo of the Central Committee, dated September 12, 2025, which emphasizes gender balance in the election of National Assembly and provincial People's Assembly members. Ms. Thoummaly noted that the Party, Government, and National Assembly have consistently prioritized gender equality and the advancement of women in political life. Consequently, women's participation has graduall y increased across various levels. Currently, women account for 16.9 percent of the Party Central Executive Committee, 21.95 percent of National Assembly members, 30.48 percent of provincial People's Assembly members, 27.27 percent of ministers and equivalent positions, and 11.89 percent of local administrative leadership positions. However, when compared with national targets set under the Five-Year National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2021-2025), several indicators have yet to be met. The plan calls for women to hold at least 30 percent of seats in the National Assembly and provincial People's Assemblies, 30 percent of leadership positions at the central level, 20 percent at provincial and district levels, 10 percent at village level, and at least 50 percent of civil service positions. In preparation for the upcoming elections, the 9th Female National Assembly Members' Committee conducted a comprehensive study on women's representation and gender equality in the National Assembly and provincial Peopl e's Assemblies. The research was approved by the National Assembly Standing Committee and supported by budgetary and technical assistance from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under its project to strengthen the capacity and effectiveness of the People's Assembly system in the Lao PDR. The study involved a review of policies, strategies, laws, reports, and academic research from 53 sources, in-depth interviews with 19 National Assembly members, including 11 women, and questionnaire surveys involving 305 respondents from the National Assembly, provincial People's Assemblies, and related staff. The findings are expected to serve as an important reference for relevant authorities and election-related bodies, helping guide policy implementation and practical measures to narrow gender gaps and advance women's participation in decision-making ahead of the forthcoming elections.