The 3rd Lao National Urban Forum, themed “SDG Localization: Partnering with Youth for Achieving SDGs”, will be held from December 9–13, 2024, at the National University of Laos. Organized by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport and co-chaired by UN-Habitat, the forum focuses on fostering sustainable urban development in Lao PDR through inclusive urban governance. It addresses challenges from rapid urbanization and rural-urban migration while promoting safe, healthy, and economically vibrant urban areas.

Objectives

1.      Provide a Platform for Dialogue

• Facilitate discussions among urban stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organisations, the private sector, development partners, and other urban sectors.
• Promote integrated participatory planning, development, and management of urban areas.

2.      Raise Awareness and Advocacy

• Increase awareness about urbanization issues.
• Advocate for inclusive and collaborative approaches to building resilient and sustainable cities.

3.      Promote Youth Engagement

• Foster partnerships with youth to achieve SDGs, leveraging their energy, innovation, and perspectives.
• Encourage youth participation in urban planning and development processes.

4.      Support SDG Localization

• Align urban development initiatives with SDG 11 (Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable) and the New Urban Agenda.
• Support the Government of Lao PDR in mainstreaming and implementing the UNSDCF 2022-2026.

Participants

The LNUF will bring together urban stakeholders in Laos, including but not limited to:

• Line Ministries
• Academics from the National University of Laos and students
• Officials from provinces
• International/National Organisations
• Other Development Partners
• Private Sector
• Mass Organisations (e.g. Lao Women’s Union, Lao Youth Union)
• Civil Society Organisations
• Urban Authorities
• Citizens

We invite all stakeholders—government agencies, organizations, private sector actors, youths and citizens—to actively participate in this transformative event. Your involvement is vital to shaping the future of Lao cities and ensuring that urbanization benefits all. Together, we can create cities that are not only livable and sustainable but also serve as models of equitable development for generations to come.

Latest News

31 October 2024, Vientiane, Lao PDR

Preparatory Meeting for the 3rd Lao National Urban Forum Sets the Stage for SDG Localization with Youth Partnerships