CARE International’s history in Lao PDR
CARE began working in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) in 1992, responding to the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly among ethnic minority communities facing poverty, inequality, and limited access to social and economic opportunities.
In its early years, CARE focused on basic needs and community recovery, including work on health, food security, livelihoods, and local systems. CARE worked closely with communities and government partners to improve living conditions in both rural and urban areas.
Over time, CARE’s work in Lao PDR has evolved into longer-term programs that support livelihoods, health, and resilience, in line with national priorities.
CARE and partners’ work in Lao PDR today
CARE works with communities, government institutions, civil society organizations, and private sector partners to support locally led programs. CARE currently operates in seven provinces, including Vientiane Capital, Phongsaly, Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, Salavan, Champasak, and Sekong. Our work focuses on:
Making the economy work
CARE supports women and communities to earn an income through livelihoods, small businesses, and access to markets and financial services.
Climate
We work with communities to respond to climate-related risks through agriculture, natural resource management, and community-led adaptation.
Health
We support access to health and nutrition services, including maternal and child health and sexual and reproductive health, alongside water, sanitation, and hygiene.
Gender equality
CARE works with communities and partners to prevent violence against women and girls and promote safer, more supportive environments.
CARE works closely with local partners to ensure programs respond to community needs and priorities.
Focus on women and girls
Women and girls are at the center of CARE’s work in Lao PDR, particularly those from ethnic minority communities who face unequal access to rights, resources, and decision-making.
We work with local and national women-led groups, women’s rights organizations and community partners to deliver tailored programs that address the specific needs of women and girls.
CARE and our partners support women and girls to:
Earn an income through livelihood and market opportunities
Participate in community decision-making and local initiatives
Access health, nutrition, and WASH services
Live free from violence and access support services
CARE Laos is committed to a locally-led, globally supported approach, with long-term investments in capacity building to achieve sustianable development and equality for women and girls, men and boys.
For recent updates on CARE Laos, see here.
