UNDP and MOLSW Launch USD 3.8 Million Project to Strengthen Disaster Response in Lao PDR

Hanoi: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare (MOLSW), has launched a new initiative to strengthen disaster preparedness and human security in the Lao PDR. According to Lao News Agency, the project is supported by a contribution of 615 million yen (USD 3.8 million) from the Government of Japan for the period 2024-2027. Titled 'Strengthening Disaster Response Capacity through the Establishment of Evacuation Shelters,' the initiative will see the construction of 12 fully equipped evacuation shelters in the provinces of Khammouane, Salavan, and Champassak. The shelters are designed to provide safe refuge for vulnerable populations, particularly in flood-prone areas, while also serving as community hubs for local livelihoods, education, and social cohesion in normal times. The project will also update the National Guidelines for the Selection and Assessment of Evacuation Shelters, ensuring that these facilities are inclusive, climate-resil ient, and multifunctional. The Lao PDR remains highly vulnerable to climate-related disasters, with nearly 40% of the population exposed to flood risks. In 2022-2023, floods in the three targeted provinces caused damages exceeding 40 billion kip. More recently, tropical depression Wipha triggered severe flooding in Khammouane, affecting over 335 families in Hinboun District and causing losses of more than 1.2 billion kip. During the launch ceremony, Mr. Phoxay Sayasone, Minister of Labour and Social Welfare; Koizumi Tsutomu, Ambassador of Japan to the Lao PDR; and Ms. Martine Thérer, UNDP Resident Representative, emphasized the importance of strengthening disaster resilience. Minister Phoxay highlighted that the project aims to improve both technical capacity and human resources and called for close coordination among ministries, local authorities, and communities to ensure its success. Ambassador Koizumi reaffirmed Japan's commitment to supporting the Lao PDR, noting that both countries face similar disas ter risks and expressing Japan's readiness to share its expertise. Ms. Thérer stated that the UNDP will ensure the shelters meet the highest standards of safety, inclusivity, and functionality to both save lives and support long-term recovery. This initiative reflects a shared commitment by the Lao PDR, Japan, and UNDP to advance disaster risk reduction and build stronger community resilience, ensuring that no one is left behind.