The Lao government, in cooperation with UNICEF, has launched the preparation process of the government’s 3rd-6th report on the implementation of the Unite Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The launch of the reports is to mark the 25th anniversary of the Lao PDR’s accession to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).

The government of Laos has pledged to further its commitment to put the UN Convention on the Right of the Child into practice, said Acting President of National Committee for Mothers and Children Lytou Bouapao.

The meeting took place on March 25 at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane Capital and was attended by Acting President of the National Committee for Mothers and Children, Lytou Bouapao, UNICEF Representative Hongwei Gao, and representatives from the provinces.

“The process of developing the report is important. It is an opportunity to refresh our political commitment to, and raise awareness of, the rights of children in the Lao PDR. It is an opportunity to review issues, plan actions and move the agenda forward,” said Ms Gao.

The committee on the rights of children regularly reviews the progress made by each country member to the convention on rights of the child. This is how it examines the progress each country has made in implementing the CRC. It is an obligation of the government to report regularly on the implementation of the CRC.

The convention on the rights of the child is visionary in its concept, and has provided an essential guide and framework to strengthen laws and policies and introduce new ones that have led to impressive gains for children globally.

Since 1990, extreme poverty has been reduced by nearly half, improving the lives of an estimated three million children. Universal primary education for all children, including girls, is close to being achieved, up from less than 70 per cent in 1991.

Laos ratified the CRC 25 years ago. Ever since, there has been remarkable progress in enhancing children’s rights in the country. Landmark achievements include calling for the promotion and protection of children and women in the 7th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2011-2015).The law on the protection of the rights and interests of children (2007) specifically outlines state roles and responsibilities to promote and protect the rights of children.

 And soon the results of the first ever national survey on violence against children will be published which is another important step on the road to realizing the rights of every child in the Lao PDR.

The Lao PDR has achieved the MDGs in mortality reduction, primary school enrolment, and access to improved drinking water.  However, many challenges remain, such as the polio outbreak, the issue of child stunting and access to pre-school.

“As a result, we must continue enhancing children’s rights, and supporting children’s survival, development and protection. We must capitalize on this reporting process to refresh our commitment and take coordinated actions for children.  Today’s event is a step towards these goals,” said Ms Gao.

Source:
courtesy of KPL NEWS AGENCY

by KPL

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