WWF-Laos Six-Month Conservation Highlights 2024 by WWF-Myanmar

SIX-MONTH MILESTONES: JULY TO DECEMBER 2024

CONSERVATION HIGHLIGHTS

These highlights celebrate the progress made toward preserving Laos’ rich biodiversity and fostering sustainable development, emphasizing our continued commitment to impactful conservation through collaboration.

(Cover photo: Zhangixalus melanoleucus, a medium-sized tree frog, was discovered in northeast Laos. It is one of the 19 species identified in Laos among the 234 New Species described across the Greater Mekong region in 2023.)

Each activity is briefly summarized, reflecting the implementation of our conservation program in Forests, Freshwater, Wildlife, Climate Change, and various cross-cutting initiatives. It also includes efforts in nature-based solutions and sustainability across key priority areas and conservation sites.

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This 6-month report highlights key activities and events from July to December 2024, showcasing the milestones achieved collectively with partners, WWF network offices, donors, and stakeholders in Laos.

WELCOME TO OUR 6-MONTH CONSERVATION HIGHLIGHTS FROM WWF-LAOS.

CELEBRATING 6 MONTHS OF CONSERVATION SUCCESS.

A MESSAGE FROM THE COUNTRY DIRECTOR: As 2024 comes to an end, it's also a time to reflect on the challenges and achievements of the year. Despite the world experiencing its hottest year in history, unprecedented biodiversity loss, and disappointing outcomes from COP16, COP29, and the lack of agreement at INC-5, life in Laos continued. Our conservation efforts have progressed and strengthened. With FY24 marking WWF-Laos' strongest growth, we have been considering our role and responsibility to support biodiversity recovery, focus on forest and river restoration, enhance wildlife protection, and extend our IWT capacity and impact. We are also strengthening our role in support to the Lao government to tackle the plastic pollution crisis and engagement with rural communities to ensure that the people of Laos thrive and live in harmony with nature. In this final Conservation Highlights of 2024, we showcase the incredible work of nearly 80 dedicated pandas in priority sites, landscapes, waterscapes, and cities where we pursue our conservation goals. As the holiday season approaches, I hope you enjoy reading this while relaxing and spending time with family and friends. Rest assured, we will continue to deliver even more and better conservation efforts next year.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND A JOYFUL NEW YEAR. LORIS PALENTINI, COUNTRY DIRECTOR OF WWF-LAOS

ADVANCED FOREST MONITORING AND PREDICTION SYSTEMS IN PRIORITY SITES. NEW FOREST AREA PROGRESSED TOWARD NATIONAL PROTECTED AREA STATUS. TWO NATIONAL PROTECTED AREAS ACHIEVED ASEAN HERITAGE PARK STATUS. SUPPORTED LAND USE PLANNING AND ESTABLISHED ZONING REGULATIONS IN AND AROUND PROTECTED AREAS.

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STRENGTHENED LIVELIHOODS THROUGH WEAVING TRAINING. 'MOU' SIGNED FOR FOREST RESTORATION PROJECT. STRENGTHENED BUSINESS LINKS FOR RATTAN AND BAMBOO PRODUCTS. BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION CONTRACTS AND DEVELOPMENT FUNDS WERE ESTABLISHED. STRENGTHENED FOREST AND BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION CAPACITY.

ECOSYSTEM-BASED ADAPTATION INTEGRATION ADVANCED INTO POLICY IN FRESHWATER PRIORITY SITES.

STRENGTHENED CONSERVATION EFFORTS FOR NONG KHAM SAEN – LAOS’ LAST URBAN WETLAND.

C0-RELEASED A NEW SPECIES DISCOVERIES IN THE GREATER MEKONG: LAOS CONTRIBUTES 19 SPECIES. SUPPORT PROVIDED FOR COLLABORATIVE BIODIVERSITY ACTION. DEPLOYED OVER 100 CAMERA TRAPS FOR BIODIVERSITY SURVEY.

FISH POPULATIONS INCREASED IN CONSERVATION ZONES, BOOSTING COMMUNITY CATCHES .

SEVEN NEW FISH CONSERVATION ZONES ESTABLISHED. CONDUCTED A CALL TO PROTECT ENDANGERED FISH SPECIES CAMPAIGN.

STRENGTHENED AQUATIC RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND CLIMATE-RESILIENT LIVELIHOODS IN FRESHWATER PRIORITY SITES.

SUPPORTED WILDLIFE TRAFFICKING CRACKDOWN ACROSS FIVE PROVINCES. SUPPORT PROVIDED FOR THE ‘NBSAP’ REVISION PROCESS. CO-ORGANIZED THE FIRST NATIONAL TIGER RECOVERY ACTION PLAN WORKSHOP.

ENHANCED DATA-DRIVEN INSIGHTS TO COMBAT ILLEGAL WILDLIFE TRADE.

SNAPSHOT OF A 6-MONTH CONSERVATION REVIEW: JULY TO DECEMBER 2024

PLASTIC REDUCTION AND WASTE MANAGEMENT CAMPAIGNS CONDUCTED.

CLIMATE CHANGE AND GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN LAOS REPORT LAUNCHED.

ATTENDED INC-5, THE GLOBAL CONFERENCE ON PLASTIC POLLUTION TREATY NEGOTIATIONS.

THREE 5-YEAR STRATEGY INTERNAL WORKSHOPS HELD.

CONSULTATION WORKSHOP ORGANIZED ON WATERSHED MANAGEMENT AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE PROJECT.

LUANG PRABANG HAS JOINED PLASTIC SMART CITIES TO TACKLE PLASTIC POLLUTION. CONDUCTED COMMUNITY CLIMATE CHANGE VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENTS. ROLLED OUT THE E-REGISTRATION SYSTEM. NEW PROJECT PARTNERSHIP ESTABLISHED WITH THE LAO GOVERNMENT THROUGH SUPPORT FROM THE GEF.

CONDUCTED ‘FPIC’ ACROSS PROJECT AREAS. IMPLEMENTED DIGITAL MONITORING SYSTEMS FOR EVIDENCE-BASED ACTION. THE BUDDY PROGRAM ESTABLISHED. CONDUCTED ACCOUNTABILITY TRAINING ON GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM, HUMAN RIGHTS, AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARD. HOSTED FIVE DIFFERENT DONOR FIELD VISITS ACROSS FIVE PROJECT SITES. FOUR 'CSO' PARTNERS TRAINED IN FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT.

SNAPSHOT OF A 6-MONTH CONSERVATION REVIEW: JULY TO DECEMBER 2024

WWF-Laos, in partnership with the Forest Inventory and Planning Division and key stakeholders, is advancing forest monitoring through the Provincial Deforestation Monitoring Systems and piloting Forest Foresight in Xe Pian and Dong Hua Sao National Parks. Officials have received training, with plans to further enhance their capacity and provide essential monitoring tools.

TWO NATIONAL PROTECTED AREAS ACHIEVED ASEAN HERITAGE PARK STATUS. Nam Poui and Phou Xieng Thong National Protected Areas have officially attained ASEAN Heritage Park status, bringing the total to three prestigious protected areas in Laos under this regional recognition. This milestone underscores their vital conservation value and reflects WWF-Laos’ long-standing commitment to safeguarding these critical biodiversity hotspots.

SUPPORTED LAND USE PLANNING AND ESTABLISHED ZONING REGULATIONS IN AND AROUND PROTECTED AREAS. Preparatory activities for Participatory Land Use Planning engaged stakeholders from Xe Pian and Dong Hua Sao National Parks. GIS training was conducted to prepare for implementation, with the first phase focusing on biodiversity and inclusive management. In Xesap National Park, zoning regulations for Totally Protected, and Buffer Zones were approved, bolstering conservation and collaborative management efforts.

STRENGTHENED LIVELIHOODS THROUGH RATTAN AND BAMBOO WEAVING TRAINING. Training sessions enhanced villagers’ skills in rattan and bamboo weaving, leveraging local expertise to foster community learning and promote sustainable livelihoods. The sessions covered sustainable harvesting, processing, and advanced weaving techniques, contributing to forest management and adding value to local incomes.

NEW PARTNERSHIP ESTABLISHED FOR FOREST RESTORATION PROJECT. WWF-Laos and the Department of Forestry signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the Forest Restoration for Resilience and Development project. The project being implemented in Xe Pian and Dong Hua Sao National Parks, focuses on enhancing livelihoods, building climate resilience, and promoting forest protection, restoration, and agroforestry.

WWF-Laos opened a new field office in Nam Poui National Protected Area (NPA), Sayaboury Province. Sharing space with the NPA head office, this hub supports the Nam Poui patrol and WWF-Laos field teams, enhancing coordination and law enforcement efforts. This strategic move bolsters collaboration to safeguard one of Laos’ most vital protected areas.

BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION CONTRACTS AND DEVELOPMENT FUNDS WERE ESTABLISHED. Biodiversity Conservation Contracts and Village Development Funds were established in target villages within Xesap National Park. Through training and guidance, this initiative empowers communities to actively protect biodiversity while fostering sustainable development, creating a foundation for long-term conservation success and resilience.

STRENGTHENED FOREST AND BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION CAPACITY. Conducted a training session on protected areas management for patrol teams and border military, focusing on forest protection, biodiversity conservation, and survey techniques. Topics included camera trapping, law enforcement strategies, data collection, and SMART technology. This initiative strengthens stakeholder capacity and coordination, enhancing efforts to safeguard biodiversity and combat illegal activities.

CONDUCTED LAND USE PLANNING IN NAM POUI NATIONAL PROTECTED AREA. WWF-Laos supported government departments in a Land Use Planning Review near Nam Poui National Protected Area. The review assessed zoning maps, ensuring alignment with development goals, while engaging communities to address concerns and promote sustainable land management.

FIELD VISIT ORGANIZED TO TWO FOREST RESTORATION AREAS IN XE PIAN AND DONG HUA SAO. WWF-Laos welcomed WWF-Finland representatives to Dong Hua Sao and Xe Pian National Parks, The visit assessed project progress, focusing on restoration areas and community nurseries, and included discussions with government counterparts. Observing deforestation and degradation firsthand, the visit provided valuable insights into conservation challenges and successes, shaping future strategies.

NEW FOREST AREA PROGRESSED TOWARD NATIONAL PROTECTED AREA STATUS. Following a feasibility study review, provincial authorities approved the designation of Phou Ayoun as a National Protected Area, encompassing approximately 86,000 hectares. This milestone marks a significant step toward formal recognition, demonstrating a collective commitment to biodiversity conservation, preserving Laos’ natural heritage, and promoting sustainable development in line with national priorities.

STRENGTHENED BUSINESS LINKS FOR RATTAN AND BAMBOO PRODUCTS. The Sustainable Rattan and Bamboo Project facilitated consultations between middle traders and village handicraft groups, leading to two new business links for rattan and bamboo products. These efforts improved product quality, expanded market reach, and strengthened community livelihoods through enhanced buyer-producer connections.

ADVANCED FOREST MONITORING AND PREDICTION SYSTEMS IN PRIORITY SITES.

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HIGHLIGHTS NOTE ON FORESTS PROGRAMME:

NEW OFFICE WAS OPENED IN NAM POUI NATIONAL PROTECTED AREA.

ECOSYSTEM-BASED ADAPTATION INTEGRATION ADVANCED INTO POLICY IN FRESHWATER PRIORITY SITES. Building on the success of Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) at the village level, this approach has been integrated into sub-national policy through the Multisectoral Adaptation Action Plan (MAAP) for the Siphandone riverscape. A consultation workshop finalized the MAAP, which is set to pilot across broader areas, enhancing resilience and sustainability in Siphandone.

FISH POPULATIONS INCREASED IN CONSERVATION ZONES, BOOSTING COMMUNITY CATCHES.

An animal vaccination activity was conducted in five target villages within a Xebanghieng priority site, vaccinating over 400 cattle. This initiative safeguards livestock from diseases, prevents outbreaks, and boosts productivity, contributing to sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

WWF-Laos hosted representatives from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, WWF-Australia, and the regional project team for a field visit to the Siphandone riverscape, where the Climate Resilience by Nature project extension is underway. The visit assessed the project’s impact on communities and nature in addressing climate change through discussions with local communities and government counterparts.

STRENGTHENED CONSERVATION EFFORTS FOR NONG KHAM SAEN, LAOS’ LAST URBAN WETLAND.

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES THROUGH 'VDF' IN SIPHANDONE RIVERSCAPE.

USAID DELEGATION AND CONSERVATION PARTNERS VISITS NONG KHAM SAEN WETLAND.

Key milestones included completing Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) and stakeholder consultations, finalizing design and boundary demarcation, and securing a contractor for dyke construction slated for early 2025. The approval of an Educational Center by the management committee further highlights progress toward preserving this vital urban wetland and its cultural heritage.

Six target communities in Siphandone received $30,000 in seed funding through the Village Development Fund (VDF), which, combined with $26,800 in community savings, now totals $62,800. Supporting small businesses and diversifying livelihoods, the VDF empowers over 450 registered members to adapt effectively to climate change.

WWF-Laos co-hosted a USAID visit to Nong Kham Saen Wetland with U.S. government representatives and over 80 delegates from the Mekong-U.S. Partnership Policy Dialogue, including participants from Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand. The delegation engaged with local authorities and communities, witnessing impactful conservation efforts in Vientiane Capital’s critical urban wetland.

NEW FISH CONSERVATION ZONES ESTABLISHED.

A fish catch monitoring survey in freshwater priority sites revealed increased fish populations within Fish Conservation Zones, resulting in higher catches outside these zones compared to previous years. These results underscore the success of the Ecosystem-based Adaptation approach in enhancing resilience for both nature and communities, demonstrating the positive impact of sustainable conservation practices.

Seven new Fish Conservation Zones (FCZ), covering 60 hectares, were established across two districts of Salavan Province near Phou Xieng Thong National Park. FCZ regulations, along with roles of the Fishery Management Committee and Community Patrolling Team, were shared, supported by the distribution of FCZ regulation booklets and the installation of 20 FCZ and regulation signs.

STRENGTHENED AQUATIC RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND CLIMATE-RESILIENT LIVELIHOODS.

A CALL TO PROTECT ENDANGERED FISH SPECIES: AWARENESS RAISING CONDUCTED.

A review meeting on fisheries co-management and climate resilience near Phou Xieng Thong National Protected Area, organized with the Department of Livestock and Fisheries, focused on milestones, challenges, and strategies to enhance aquatic resource management, conservation, and climate-resilient livelihoods, fostering collaboration for sustainable development in the area.

'DFAT' AND IMPLEMENTING PARTNERS VISITED THE CRxN PROJECT IN SIPHANDONE RIVERSCAPE.

Organized a campaign to raise awareness about 10 critically endangered fish species in Laos. Highlighting Lao aquatic law, which prohibits the catching, trading, or possession of Category I species, the campaign leveraged online platforms and distributed printed materials to communities, emphasizing the need to preserve Laos’ aquatic biodiversity.

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HIGHLIGHTS NOTE ON FRESHWATER PROGRAMME:

ANIMAL VACCINATION BOOSTS LIVELIHOODS .

Compiled data from the piloted Illegal Wildlife Trade Market Survey Tool and Dashboard in Xesap National Park revealed a significant decline in endangered species, offering vital insights for conservation and habitat protection. The tool is now being utilized in other regions, including monitoring aquatic and endangered species in the Mekong landscape.

RAISED AWARENESS ON WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AT THE BOAT RACING FESTIVAL.

SUPPORT PROVIDED FOR COLLABORATIVE BIODIVERSITY ACTION. Supported the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment in organizing a capacity-building session on the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). The session brought together participants from civil society organizations and government partners, promoting collaboration and progress through consultations on NBSAP revisions.

DEPLOYED OVER 100 CAMERA TRAPS FOR BIODIVERSITY SURVEY. Over 100 camera traps were deployed in Nam Poui National Protected Area as part of a biodiversity survey focusing on large cats and their prey. This first systematic camera trap survey in Nam Poui, conducted by WWF-Laos and partners, included both new surveys and final phases of system design. These cameras will be retrieved in early 2025, with anticipated insights into Nam Poui’s hidden wildlife.

SUPPORT PROVIDED FOR THE ‘NBSAP’ REVISION PROCESS. Collaborated with the Department of Environment (DE), UNDP, and GIZ to improve the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) through a jointly developed roadmap for its revision. WWF-Laos contributed technical expertise to update the NBSAP and prepare the 7th National Report on Biodiversity, ensuring alignment with human rights-based principles and promoting an inclusive, collaborative approach.

CO-ORGANIZED THE FIRST NATIONAL TIGER RECOVERY ACTION WORKSHOP. The first consultation for the National Tiger Recovery Action Plan 2025–2035, organized by the Department of Forestry with support from WWF-Laos, brought together forestry authorities, law enforcement, conservation organizations, and key partners in Vientiane. Discussions focused on tiger recovery strategies, population restoration, and regulating tiger farms and trade.

During the annual Boat Racing Festival on the Xedone River in Salavan Province, WWF-Laos hosted an awareness campaign to promote wildlife protection and discourage wildlife consumption. The campaign featured an interactive booth with engaging activities, educational material distribution, and targeted questions, delivering impactful conservation messages to visitors.

ANALYZED XE PIAN’S BIODIVERSITY TO GUIDE FUTURE CONSERVATION PLANNING. Over 77 camera traps deployed in Xe Pian National Park’s core zone earlier this year captured 16 wildlife species. This initiative highlights the park’s rich biodiversity, offering vital data for research and conservation. A detailed scientific report is nearing completion and expected early next year to support enhanced biodiversity protection in the area.

CRACKDOWN ON ILLEGAL WILDLIFE TRADE ACROSS KEY PROVINCES IN LAOS. The Department of Forest Inspection, with support from WWF-Laos, conducted wildlife law enforcement operations in key hotspot areas across Laos. These efforts resulted in the seizure of nearly 590 kg of elephant skin, over 540 kg of pangolin scales, a leopard carcass, and other animal parts. Additionally, 30 wildlife specimens, including live animals, were confiscated. Authorities also intercepted 189 trafficked parrots and seized over 600 pieces of ivory and rhino horn. All suspects involved are currently under investigation.

C0-RELEASED A NEW SPECIES DISCOVERIES: LAOS CONTRIBUTES 19 SPECIES. The New Species Discoveries in the Greater Mekong report highlights 234 newly described species in 2023, including 19 from Laos, three of which are endemic. The findings include 173 vascular plants, 26 reptiles, 17 amphibians, 15 fishes, and 3 mammals across Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam, bringing the total species described since 1997 to 3,623.

HIGHLIGHTS NOTE ON WILDLIFE PROGRAMME:

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ENHANCED DATA-DRIVEN INSIGHTS TO COMBAT ILLEGAL WILDLIFE TRADE.

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HIGHLIGHTS NOTE ON PLASTIC AND CLIMATE CHANGE EFFORTS: EMBRACED PLASTIC FREE JULY: A GLOBAL INITIATIVE. Participated in Plastic Free July, promoting the initiative internally and externally to inspire action against plastic pollution. Staff reduced single-use plastics at work, while public campaigns shared sustainable tips. These efforts reflect WWF-Laos’ dedication to sustainability, advocating for a plastic-free future and environmental protection.

CONSULTATION WORKSHOP ORGANIZED ON WATERSHED MANAGEMENT AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE PROJECT. The GEF-funded project “Enhancing Integrated Watershed Management and Climate Resilience” (2026–2031) launched with a high-level workshop in Vientiane, co-chaired by WWF-Laos and the Department of Water Resources. A Provincial Kick-off Workshop in Xayaboury followed, engaging stakeholders from six districts across four key river basins in preparation the implementation efforts.

ROLLED OUT THE E-REGISTRATION SYSTEM. WWF-Laos introduced an E-registration system to streamline online meeting registrations, reducing paper use and enhancing efficiency. Already applied to most internal meetings, the system will soon be extended to partners, supporting a transition to a fully paperless process and reflecting WWF-Laos’ commitment to sustainability and waste reduction.

PROMOTED WASTE MANAGEMENT AND SINGLE-USE PLASTIC REDUCTION AT TWO ANNUAL BOAT RACING FESTIVALS. WWF-Laos collaborated with the Luang Prabang Urban Management Office and volunteers to enhance waste management during the Boat Racing Festival. The initiative provided trash bins, cleaning tools, and educational materials, with volunteers encouraging responsible disposal and sustainable practices among attendees. In Vientiane, an online awareness campaign was conducted to promote the reduction of single-use plastics.

LUANG PRABANG HAS JOINED PLASTIC SMART CITIES TO TACKLE PLASTIC POLLUTION. Luang Prabang’s commitment to sustainability sets a benchmark for other cities in Laos. A 2023 study revealed the city produces approximately 4,583 tonnes of plastic waste annually, leading to issues like waterway leakage, open burning, and landfill overflow. This initiative aims to improve waste management, promote reduction efforts, and engage schools in enhancing practices and environmental education.

LAOS JOINED INC-5, THE GLOBAL NEGOTIATIONS ON PLASTIC POLLUTION TREATY. Official delegates from Laos participated in the final negotiations for a Global Plastic Pollution Treaty in Busan, Republic of Korea, a critical step in tackling the plastic crisis. WWF-Laos and Zero Waste Laos observed the discussions, supporting the Lao government’s plastic waste management efforts through an ongoing partnership, highlighting a shared commitment to sustainable solutions.

CONDUCTED COMMUNITY CLIMATE CHANGE VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENTS. Conducted Community Climate Change Vulnerability Assessments to identify risks and impacts in target areas. These assessments engage local communities to gather insights, enabling the development of customized adaptation strategies and fostering resilience to climate change.

NEW PROJECT PARTNERSHIP ESTABLISHED WITH THE LAO GOVERNMENT THROUGH SUPPORT FROM THE GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT FACILITY. The 5-Year Global Environment Facility Project has been approved, paving the way for reducing plastic pollution and implementing a comprehensive plastic action plan in Laos. Scheduled for 2025 to 2029, the project will be carried out in Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and Vientiane in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

THREE 5-YEAR STRATEGY INTERNAL WORKSHOPS HELD. Conducted three workshops to develop the 5-Year Office Strategy Plan (OSP), focusing on conservation programme, operations, and cross-cutting priorities. These sessions established key goals and indicators, with the integrated OSP set for finalization by mid-2025, guiding WWF-Laos toward its 2030 vision.

THE BUDDY PROGRAM ESTABLISHED. WWF-Laos launched the Buddy Program under the New Way of Working initiative to support new hires in transitioning smoothly into their roles. Experienced team members are paired with new colleagues to provide guidance, practical advice, and insights into WWF-Laos’ culture and values. This initiative fosters confidence, connection, and readiness for success.

FOUR 'CSO' PARTNERS TRAINED IN FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT. WWF-Laos provided QuickBooks software and hands-on training for financial staff from four civil society organization partners. This initiative strengthens financial management, ensuring accountability and transparency aligned with international standards and donor requirements within collaborative projects.

WWF-Laos, in partnership with CARE International, the Gender Development Association (GDA), and the Lao Women’s Union, launched the Climate Change and Gender-Based Violence report. Conducted in two provinces, the study offers key recommendations for gender-responsive climate programming and tools for community-driven data collection. Aligned with the 16 Days of Activism, this initiative strengthens gender equality and community empowerment within Laos’ climate policies and interventions.

CONDUCTED TRAINING ON GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM, HUMAN RIGHTS, AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARD. WWF-Laos organized a series of training sessions on the Grievance Redress Mechanism, Environmental and Social Safeguards (ESS), and the Statement of Principles (SoP), equipping teams with practical tools to address grievances and ensure ethical compliance. A stakeholder workshop focused on Human Rights, Access Restrictions, and Indigenous Peoples, providing participants with guidance to integrate ESS into projects, promote sustainability, and protect vulnerable communities.

IMPLEMENTED DIGITAL MONITORING SYSTEMS FOR EVIDENCE-BASED ACTION. The Digital Monitoring System (DMS) has become a vital tool for WWF-Laos, combining data-driven insights with strategic programme implementation. Over the past six months, conservation teams have leveraged DMS dashboards to analyze field data, enhancing decision-making and boosting the efficiency of conservation initiatives across the organization.

CONDUCTED ‘FPIC’ ACROSS PROJECT AREAS. WWF-Laos implemented Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) across key projects and sites, conducting workshops, focus groups, and field activities. Engaging stakeholders, government partners, private sector representatives, and local communities, these efforts fostered collaboration, ensured inclusive participation, and aligned with environmental and social safeguard principles.

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HIGHLIGHTS NOTE FROM CROSS-CUTTING ACTIVITIES:

CLIMATE CHANGE AND GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN LAOS REPORT LAUNCHED.

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IN NUMBERS

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PRIORITY SPECIES GROUPS: NATIONAL AND GLOBAL SIGNIFICANCE MAIN LANDSCAPES KEY PRIORITY SITES FOR CONSERVATION

3 6 80

ABOUT WWF-LAOS FOCUS CITIES OFFICES STAFFS

KEY CONSERVATION PROGRAMME:

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FRESHWATER WILDLIFE CLIMATE CHANGE

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The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) has had a presence in Laos since the late 1980s, with the WWF-Laos office officially established in 2001. Today, our head office is in Vientiane capital, with more than five field offices across the country and over 80 staff members working with partners on conservation efforts. WWF-Laos is part of WWF-Asia Pacific, receiving supervision and support from WWF-International and network offices in many countries worldwide. The office also receives financial support from various donors for the implementation of conservation projects in Laos. OUR MISSION FOR LAOS IS TO BUILD A FUTURE WHERE THE PEOPLE OF LAOS CAN THRIVE AND LIVE IN HARMONY WITH NATURE.

By working in partnership with the government of Laos, private sector, communities, and local and international organizations, we can address the threats to biodiversity and habitat loss and move towards a greener, nature-based future for the sustainable and long-lasting benefit of both people and wildlife.

wwf-laos@wwf.org.la WWF-Laos: House No. 39, Unit 05, Saylom Village, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital, Laos. Tel. +856 21 216080 www.wwf.org.la

Luang Prabang province Sayaboury province

Vientiane province

Vientiane capital

Savannakhet province

WWF-Laos head office

Salavan province

Xekong province

Field offices Provinces where WWF-Laos is currently working

Champasak province Attapue province

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BUILDING A FUTURE WHERE THE PEOPLE OF LAOS CAN THRIVE AND LIVE IN HARMONY WITH NATURE.

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