01/08/25 (Agence Europe) – The European Union, in partnership with the Lao Ministry of Labour and the NGO Save the Children, has signed a memorandum of understanding to launch a project to eliminate the use of child labour in the province of Luang Prabang. According to the latest survey of social indicators in Laos, child labour affects 23% of the country’s 5–17 year-olds, with higher rates in rural and disadvantaged areas. The project, which is supported by the EU, focuses on protecting and empowering children, raising awareness among families and communities, and building institutional capacity. It targets six priority districts and contributes to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10 by reducing inequalities. The EU ambassador to Laos, Mark Gallagher, reaffirmed the EU’s policy of zero tolerance in respect of child labour. (PLD)