Vientiane plans to deploy 1,172 traffic police officers across 143 stations in the country during the Lao New Year celebrations to ensure orderly, convenient, and safe road traffic from 11 to 17 April.
These officers will enforce speed limits, conduct alcohol checks, prioritize traffic control, address illegally parked vehicles to prevent congestion, and maintain 24-hour vigilance to promptly respond to accidents.
A total of 316 traffic accidents were reported during the 2024 celebrations across Laos, resulting in 33 fatalities, 594 injuries, and damage to 567 vehicles.
The main causes of accidents were overspeeding, drunk driving, and improper lane changes.
The provinces with the highest number of accidents were Vientiane Province with 43 cases, Champasak with 39 cases, and Vientiane Capital with 37 cases.
The provinces with the highest number of fatalities were Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane Capital.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Traffic-Jam-at-Patuxay-Stupa.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-04-18 01:13:002025-04-07 13:15:25Laos to Strengthen Road Safety During Lao New Year
The Ministry of Public Security has released regulations for the upcoming Lao New Year, which will be celebrated from April 14 to 16. These measures aim to ensure public safety and orderly celebrations throughout Vientiane Capital.
Public Safety and Crime Prevention
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and safeguard their belongings while participating in festivities. Any suspicious activities should be reported to the authorities immediately. Local leaders, including village and district officials, are instructed to collaborate closely to prevent theft, violence, and drug-related incidents.
Compliance for Businesses and Entertainment Venues
Restaurants, bars, and entertainment establishments must strictly follow government-issued regulations, including excessive noises and unlawful gatherings that involve drug activities. These measures are in place to uphold public safety and security throughout the celebrations.
Traffic and Road Safety Measures
Drivers must ensure that their documents are valid and up to date. Motorcyclists are required to wear helmets, while car drivers must fasten their seatbelts at all times. Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited to minimize road accidents and protect public safety.
Ban on Fireworks and Water Splashing Restrictions
The use of fireworks that produce loud noises is prohibited as they may cause disturbances to others. Additionally, using dirty or colored water for splashing is strictly forbidden to maintain hygiene and prevent discomfort among revelers.
Dress Code for Temple Visits
Visitors entering temples should dress modestly, avoiding revealing clothing that may be considered inappropriate or disrespectful. Proper attire is essential to maintaining the sanctity of religious sites.
Regulations on Gatherings and Public Spaces
Residents are not allowed to gather along roadsides, as such gatherings could obstruct traffic and create congestion. Authorities will enforce these regulations to ensure smooth traffic flow during the festival.
Fines for Rule Violations
Those who violate these regulations will face fines ranging from LAK 500,000 (USD 23.08) to LAK 10 million (USD 461.68), depending on the severity of the offense. Authorities urge the public to adhere to these rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable Lao New Year celebration for all.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Happy-Lao-New-Year-2019-JC-Services.jpg440800Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-04-17 01:10:002025-04-07 13:12:32Vientiane Authorities Announce Regulations for Lao New Year Celebrations
As part of France’s commitment to gender equality worldwide, Siv-Leng Chhuor, Ambassador of France to Laos, signed the grant agreements on 27 March with the eleven Lao organizations benefiting from the French small grants program Equipe France Fund – Civil Society Organizations (FEF-OSC) for 2025, formerly known as PISCCA.
This is the second and last phase of the 2024-2025 FEF-OSC program, which supports civil society organizations’ (CSO) initiatives on gender equality. In total, the 2024-2025 program finances 19 projects with an envelope of over half a million dollars. Since 2010, the French Embassy has supported 82 projects in Laos, for a total amount of more than USD 3 million.
The FEF-OSC is aligned with the French government’s national and global commitment to promote women’s rights and gender equality, notably through its feminist strategy (2025-2030). In addition to taking gender into account as a priority in all projects carried out by France, gender equality is at the heart of this program, and constitutes its main objective.
This year, the 11 selected projects will be implemented in eight different provinces: Bokeo, Salavanh, Vientiane, Savannakhet, Phongsaly, Champasack, Luang Prabang and Khammouane.
Among these selected organizations, six of them will build on their FEF-OSC grant obtained in 2024 through a second phase in 2025. Somphong Chaleurnsack, president of the Ecotouristic Association of Konglor-Natane (AEKN), signed a grant agreement of LAK 499,658,081 (USD 23,303) for their project aiming at strengthening women’s civic and economic influence in the Hin Boun valley of Khammouane province.
The Association for the Development and Promotion of Women’s Leadership (ADPWL), represented by Bouakham Sythvong, received a grant of LAK 386,158,791 (USD 17,953.60) to carry out the second phase of its project aiming at ending the violence against sex workers and improving their access to health services in Vientiane Capital.
Inthana Bouphasavanh, representing the Association for the Development of Women and Legal Education (ADWLE), signed the FEF-OSC 2025 agreement for LAK 432,658,081 (USD 20,110).
This marks the second phase of ADWLE’s project, dedicated to improving the response to gender-based violence (GBV) survivors and protecting vulnerable women and children’s legal rights.
The Association for the Promotion Preservation of Arts and Literature (APPAL), represented by Soukphansa Phouphasouk and recipient of a FEF-OSC grant in 2024, received LAK 494.750.000 (USD 23,000) to implement a new project empowering women and young people to lead and take action to protect the environment.
Manivone Vorachak represented the Cooperation for Development and Support to Local Knowledge Association (COSKA) as Secretary General.
The association received LAK 422,714,000 (USD 19,515.88) for the second phase of its project in Phongsaly province on the economic empowerment of young women and better GBV prevention. Empowering women and people with disabilities by improving their economic independence and social inclusion is the main objective of the Lao Disabled People’s Association (LDPA) in Sekong Province.
Sommay Sethanak, director of the association, signed the grant agreement of LAK 350,000,00 (USD 1,615.88). Soukaseum Bodhisan, President of the Namjai Community Association (NCA), came from Bokeo Province to sign the FEF-OSC 2025 grant agreement of LAK 482,500,000 (USD 22,276.08).
This second phase aims at providing quality education to girls from ethnic minorities and protecting them from all forms of violence, including early marriages, in Bokeo province. The social enterprise Project Space – Pha Tad Ke will empower young Lao women writers and contribute to a broader public dialogue on feminism, ecology, and social injustice.
Their director, Henricus Gadella, signed a grant agreement of LAK 242,700,000 (USD 11,204.99) for this project. Sengsavang, represented by Virith Khattignavong, was awarded LAK 489,997,000 (USD 22,622.21) for the second phase of their project focused on the sustainable reintegration of survivors and women at-risk of human trafficking and domestic violence in Savannakhet province.
Souphaphone Dangmany, director of STELLA, received LAK 494,750,000 (USD 22,841.64) for their project aimed at empowering young female leaders to help their peers, as well as high school students, understand the importance of study planning and encourage them to explore STEAM fields.
Lastly, Viengpeth Phongchalern came from Salavan province to represent the Women Development Fund (WDF). The foundation received LAK 300,000,000 (USD 13,850.42) for the second phase of their project on the development of a model gender equality village (MGV), and the prevention of domestic violence and early marriages in Salavan province.
The FEF-OSC 2025 selection committee was held on Monday 17 March and was composed of development partners who support, and are familiar with, civil society and gender equality issues: the German International Development Cooperation Agency (GIZ) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).
This edition is the last phase of the two-year program on gender equality. In early 2026, a new FEF-OSC program on a different thematic (tba) will be launched.
Laos to Strengthen Road Safety During Lao New Year
Vientiane plans to deploy 1,172 traffic police officers across 143 stations in the country during the Lao New Year celebrations to ensure orderly, convenient, and safe road traffic from 11 to 17 April.
These officers will enforce speed limits, conduct alcohol checks, prioritize traffic control, address illegally parked vehicles to prevent congestion, and maintain 24-hour vigilance to promptly respond to accidents.
A total of 316 traffic accidents were reported during the 2024 celebrations across Laos, resulting in 33 fatalities, 594 injuries, and damage to 567 vehicles.
The main causes of accidents were overspeeding, drunk driving, and improper lane changes.
The provinces with the highest number of accidents were Vientiane Province with 43 cases, Champasak with 39 cases, and Vientiane Capital with 37 cases.
The provinces with the highest number of fatalities were Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane Capital.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/04/02/laos-to-strengthen-road-safety-during-lao-new-year/
Vientiane Authorities Announce Regulations for Lao New Year Celebrations
The Ministry of Public Security has released regulations for the upcoming Lao New Year, which will be celebrated from April 14 to 16. These measures aim to ensure public safety and orderly celebrations throughout Vientiane Capital.
Public Safety and Crime Prevention
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and safeguard their belongings while participating in festivities. Any suspicious activities should be reported to the authorities immediately. Local leaders, including village and district officials, are instructed to collaborate closely to prevent theft, violence, and drug-related incidents.
Compliance for Businesses and Entertainment Venues
Restaurants, bars, and entertainment establishments must strictly follow government-issued regulations, including excessive noises and unlawful gatherings that involve drug activities. These measures are in place to uphold public safety and security throughout the celebrations.
Traffic and Road Safety Measures
Drivers must ensure that their documents are valid and up to date. Motorcyclists are required to wear helmets, while car drivers must fasten their seatbelts at all times. Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited to minimize road accidents and protect public safety.
Ban on Fireworks and Water Splashing Restrictions
The use of fireworks that produce loud noises is prohibited as they may cause disturbances to others. Additionally, using dirty or colored water for splashing is strictly forbidden to maintain hygiene and prevent discomfort among revelers.
Dress Code for Temple Visits
Visitors entering temples should dress modestly, avoiding revealing clothing that may be considered inappropriate or disrespectful. Proper attire is essential to maintaining the sanctity of religious sites.
Regulations on Gatherings and Public Spaces
Residents are not allowed to gather along roadsides, as such gatherings could obstruct traffic and create congestion. Authorities will enforce these regulations to ensure smooth traffic flow during the festival.
Fines for Rule Violations
Those who violate these regulations will face fines ranging from LAK 500,000 (USD 23.08) to LAK 10 million (USD 461.68), depending on the severity of the offense. Authorities urge the public to adhere to these rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable Lao New Year celebration for all.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/31/vientiane-authorities-announce-regulations-for-lao-new-year-celebrations/
France Funds 11 Lao Civil Society Projects for Gender Equality
As part of France’s commitment to gender equality worldwide, Siv-Leng Chhuor, Ambassador of France to Laos, signed the grant agreements on 27 March with the eleven Lao organizations benefiting from the French small grants program Equipe France Fund – Civil Society Organizations (FEF-OSC) for 2025, formerly known as PISCCA.
This is the second and last phase of the 2024-2025 FEF-OSC program, which supports civil society organizations’ (CSO) initiatives on gender equality. In total, the 2024-2025 program finances 19 projects with an envelope of over half a million dollars. Since 2010, the French Embassy has supported 82 projects in Laos, for a total amount of more than USD 3 million.
The FEF-OSC is aligned with the French government’s national and global commitment to promote women’s rights and gender equality, notably through its feminist strategy (2025-2030). In addition to taking gender into account as a priority in all projects carried out by France, gender equality is at the heart of this program, and constitutes its main objective.
This year, the 11 selected projects will be implemented in eight different provinces: Bokeo, Salavanh, Vientiane, Savannakhet, Phongsaly, Champasack, Luang Prabang and Khammouane.
Among these selected organizations, six of them will build on their FEF-OSC grant obtained in 2024 through a second phase in 2025. Somphong Chaleurnsack, president of the Ecotouristic Association of Konglor-Natane (AEKN), signed a grant agreement of LAK 499,658,081 (USD 23,303) for their project aiming at strengthening women’s civic and economic influence in the Hin Boun valley of Khammouane province.
The Association for the Development and Promotion of Women’s Leadership (ADPWL), represented by Bouakham Sythvong, received a grant of LAK 386,158,791 (USD 17,953.60) to carry out the second phase of its project aiming at ending the violence against sex workers and improving their access to health services in Vientiane Capital.
Inthana Bouphasavanh, representing the Association for the Development of Women and Legal Education (ADWLE), signed the FEF-OSC 2025 agreement for LAK 432,658,081 (USD 20,110).
This marks the second phase of ADWLE’s project, dedicated to improving the response to gender-based violence (GBV) survivors and protecting vulnerable women and children’s legal rights.
The Association for the Promotion Preservation of Arts and Literature (APPAL), represented by Soukphansa Phouphasouk and recipient of a FEF-OSC grant in 2024, received LAK 494.750.000 (USD 23,000) to implement a new project empowering women and young people to lead and take action to protect the environment.
Manivone Vorachak represented the Cooperation for Development and Support to Local Knowledge Association (COSKA) as Secretary General.
The association received LAK 422,714,000 (USD 19,515.88) for the second phase of its project in Phongsaly province on the economic empowerment of young women and better GBV prevention. Empowering women and people with disabilities by improving their economic independence and social inclusion is the main objective of the Lao Disabled People’s Association (LDPA) in Sekong Province.
Sommay Sethanak, director of the association, signed the grant agreement of LAK 350,000,00 (USD 1,615.88). Soukaseum Bodhisan, President of the Namjai Community Association (NCA), came from Bokeo Province to sign the FEF-OSC 2025 grant agreement of LAK 482,500,000 (USD 22,276.08).
This second phase aims at providing quality education to girls from ethnic minorities and protecting them from all forms of violence, including early marriages, in Bokeo province. The social enterprise Project Space – Pha Tad Ke will empower young Lao women writers and contribute to a broader public dialogue on feminism, ecology, and social injustice.
Their director, Henricus Gadella, signed a grant agreement of LAK 242,700,000 (USD 11,204.99) for this project. Sengsavang, represented by Virith Khattignavong, was awarded LAK 489,997,000 (USD 22,622.21) for the second phase of their project focused on the sustainable reintegration of survivors and women at-risk of human trafficking and domestic violence in Savannakhet province.
Souphaphone Dangmany, director of STELLA, received LAK 494,750,000 (USD 22,841.64) for their project aimed at empowering young female leaders to help their peers, as well as high school students, understand the importance of study planning and encourage them to explore STEAM fields.
Lastly, Viengpeth Phongchalern came from Salavan province to represent the Women Development Fund (WDF). The foundation received LAK 300,000,000 (USD 13,850.42) for the second phase of their project on the development of a model gender equality village (MGV), and the prevention of domestic violence and early marriages in Salavan province.
The FEF-OSC 2025 selection committee was held on Monday 17 March and was composed of development partners who support, and are familiar with, civil society and gender equality issues: the German International Development Cooperation Agency (GIZ) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).
This edition is the last phase of the two-year program on gender equality. In early 2026, a new FEF-OSC program on a different thematic (tba) will be launched.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/31/france-funds-11-lao-civil-society-projects-for-gender-equality/