10 December 2024, Vientiane, Lao PDR – The Third Lao National Urban Forum (LNUF) commenced on Tuesday, 10 December at the National University of Laos, bringing together government officials, academia, development partners, civil society, private sector representatives, and youth to advance sustainable urban development in Lao PDR: “SDG Localization and Partnering with Youth for Achieving SDGs”.
The LNUF is an annual event that brings together stakeholders to promote inclusive urban development and foster partnerships for sustainable cities. The forum this year is co-organized by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT), the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), and the National University of Laos (NUOL), focusing on SDG localization, youth engagement, and fostering partnerships to advance the principles of the New Urban Agenda.
The Honorable Minister of MPWT, His Excellency Mr. Ngampasong Muongmany, inaugurated the forum, emphasizing its significance in shaping Lao PDR’s urbanization trajectory. “This forum provides a critical opportunity to reflect on our progress and reaffirm our shared commitment to building sustainable, inclusive, and resilient cities. Urbanization is not just a challenge—it is an opportunity to drive economic growth, enhance social inclusion, and safeguard our environment,” the Minister stated. Keynote speakers highlighted that Lao PDR is experiencing one of the highest urbanization rates globally, with projections indicating that nearly 50% of the population will reside in urban areas by 2030. This underscores the urgent need for innovative solutions that incorporate the perspectives and participation of all stakeholders.
The third LNUF is set to provide a platform for stakeholders from across sectors to discuss pressing urban challenges and opportunities in Lao PDR. With a focus on sustainable urban development and achieving the SDGs, the five-day event features diverse sessions covering topics such as flood risk management through nature-based solutions, youth and community empowerment, and innovations in waste management. The forum will also address regional challenges like plastic pollution and rural-urban migration while fostering dialogue on responsible agricultural investments and urban water sustainability.
Dr Avi Sarkar, Head of UN-Habitat Lao PDR, spoke of the vital role of forums like the LNUF. “This gathering showcases the power of local action for global impact. Empowering youth and fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships will enable us to address the pressing challenges of urbanization and create cities that are inclusive, resilient, and sustainable,” he said. The forum will continue through December 13, featuring dialogues, workshops, and competitions aimed at empowering participants to drive impactful urban solutions.
Participating Agencies: Lao Government led by MPWT; UN agencies (UN-Habitat, UNRCO, UNOPS, UNV, UNESCAP, IOM, UNFPA, WHO, UNDP), and also National University of Laos, ADB, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, British Embassy, JICA, Green Vientiane, iNGO Network, Lao Civil Society Organizations, Global Green Growth Institute, World Bank, and Association of Lao Architects and Civil Engineers.
