TİKA Supports Women’s Empowerment in Laos

The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has carried out the renovation and furnishing of the Vocational Training Center affiliated with the Lao Women’s Union in order to enhance women’s vocational skills and increase their participation in economic life.

Within the scope of the project, the design room and exhibition hall of the center in the capital Vientiane were renovated. A modern and functional space was created where women and disadvantaged young girls can receive vocational training, showcase their traditional products, and engage in sales activities to strengthen their social and economic inclusion.

Established in 1955, the Lao Women’s Union is recognized as one of the most influential institutions in the field of women’s rights and gender equality in the country. The Union conducts significant activities, particularly in rural areas, by providing training in sewing, embroidery, weaving, and entrepreneurship to support women’s participation in social and economic life.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Vice President of the Lao Women’s Union Lavan Southisan stated, “Through such collaborations, our women are able to generate income for their families and find new markets for their products. On behalf of the Lao Women’s Union and all Lao women, we extend our gratitude to Türkiye.”

Türkiye’s Ambassador to Vientiane, Oya Yazar, emphasized the significance of the project coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the Lao Women’s Union and said, “This initiative is a testament to Türkiye’s contribution to the welfare, development, and progress of the Lao people, particularly women.”

TİKA’s Director of the Department of East and South Asia, Pacific, and Latin America, Dursun Ali Yaşacan, underlined that “the most meaningful form of development cooperation is inclusive and sustainable. Therefore, our projects in Laos do not focus solely on infrastructure or technology but particularly on historically underrepresented and underserved groups.”

In 2023, TİKA, in cooperation with the Lao Women’s Union, had also provided equipment support to the State Cotton Enterprise and organized monthly sewing and embroidery courses. Women who successfully completed the courses were given basic equipment to establish their own businesses.

Laos, categorized by the United Nations as one of the “Least Developed Countries,” continues to face challenges regarding women’s access to education and economic opportunities. Through this project, TİKA aims to contribute to Laos’ development goals while supporting women’s empowerment and strengthening bilateral cooperation.