https://laos.wcs.org RSS feeds for WCS Lao PDR 60 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/26022/From-Diplomacy-to-the-Forest-Bridging-Development-and-Nature.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=26022 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26022&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/26022/From-Diplomacy-to-the-Forest-Bridging-Development-and-Nature.aspx Manoly at NPA Roadmap Kick-Off. Photo credit: Phetpakay Bounhaxay ©️WCS Lao PDR When people imagine conservation work, they often picture scientists tracking wildlife through dense forests or rangers protecting wild places on the front lines. My journey into conservation began in a different place: policy meetings, diplomatic receptions, and development discussions about how countries grow. I was born and raised in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, and originally trained to become a diplomat. I began my career at a multilateral development bank in the 2010s, working on Laos’ green growth strategy and projects related to forests, biodiversity, water, and rural livelihoods. At the time, I did not see myself as a conservationist. I was simply passionate about international cooperation for peace and national development. I saw how investment decisions inevitably shape the future of nature, and how development itself depends on the ecosystem services that healthy landscapes provide—from the pollination of flowers by insects to the filtration of water by wetlands—making it essential to plan development in ways that avoid irreversible harm. At the same time, my work took me into Laos’s vast protected landscapes, including Nam Et–Phou Louey National Park and the forests of the Annamite Range. Guided by rangers and community members who have lived alongside these ancient forests for generations, I began to experience these landscapes more deeply. They are home to multiethnic communities who share a close relationship with the land, alongside endemic and critically endangered species, forming some of the most biologically rich forests in the world. Laos established its first national protected areas in 1993, around the same time I was learning to move as a toddler. My first encounter with the idea of “protected areas” and “wildlife conservation” came in Grade 4, when a poster of bird species from Nam Kan Protected Area was taped beside the classroom blackboard. I was captivated. At the time, I never imagined a career in conservation. I didn’t even know it existed. Years later, the lending portfolios I worked on connected me directly with Laos’ Department of Forestry, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), and the real world of protected areas and wildlife conservation, including their challenges. This experience inspired me to pursue a master’s degree at Cornell University to deepen my understanding of how policy, science, and local realities could come together to strengthen both conservation and development outcomes. Manoly at Basi Ceremony by local villagers. Photo credit: Phetpakay Bounhaxay ©️WCS Lao PDR In 2019, I was privileged to join the WCS Lao PDR Program as Deputy Country Director. More limited in scope at the time, we have since expanded both our team and conservation portfolio significantly. Today, I help co-lead a team of around 100 professionals working across protected area and wetland management, wildlife protection, biodiversity-compatible livelihoods, and private sector engagement. Much of my work focuses on supporting the Lao government in strengthening governance systems that safeguard biodiversity in line with national and international commitments. This includes assisting with the development of protected area and wildlife legislation, improving law enforcement capacity, and integrating tools such as the Mitigation Hierarchy into development planning, ensuring that investments are designed to avoid irreversible harm to species and habitats. We also apply a One Health approach that links animal, ecosystem and human health to prevent disease emergence. Working in conservation has taught me the importance of attentive listening. Environmental policy involves many voices: government officials, scientists, enforcement officers, communities, development partners, and businesses. My role is to help represent the interests of nature. Building trust across these perspectives is essential. Professionalism, humility, and persistence are more effective than ego or confrontation. Manoly visiting local villager in Nam Et-Phou Louey National Protected Area. Photo credit: Phetpakay Bounhaxay ©️WCS Lao PDR From my experience, women often bring a collaborative, bridging perspective and a can-do attitude to this work. We are practiced in navigating complexity, finding common ground, and ensuring that diverse viewpoints are heard and respected —not for personal gain, but to achieve outcomes that benefit both people and nature. Conservation—and development—need that kind of leadership. My motivation is also deeply personal. I feel fortunate in many ways—I was not trapped by poverty nor constrained by opportunity. I want others to have that same freedom: the chance to read, to express themselves, to study, to travel, to work, and ultimately to choose a path that contributes to protecting life on Earth. That privilege carries responsibility. Manoly and Jane Goodall. Photo courtesy Manoly Sisavanh As Laos continues to develop, roads and railways will be built and industries will expand. Our responsibility is to help shape this investment wisely—using science, knowledge, and cooperation in peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable ways. When conservation is embedded in the policies and systems that guide development, economic progress can advance while safeguarding the ecosystems on which societies depend. To me, conservation means ensuring that present and future generations respect and share landscapes where forests still stand, wildlife still thrives, and ecosystems continue to sustain livelihoods, economies and human wellbeing—as interconnected parts of a single, living system. By Manoly Sisavanh, Published on PBS jmauer@wcs.org Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:56:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26022 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/26013/Siamese-Crocodiles-released-into-the-Xe-Champhone-wetlands-to-restore-this-critically-endangered-species.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=26013 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26013&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/26013/Siamese-Crocodiles-released-into-the-Xe-Champhone-wetlands-to-restore-this-critically-endangered-species.aspx According to a survey data and report from Crocodile Specialist Group (CSG IUCN) with fewer than 1,000 Siamese crocodiles (Crocodylus siamensis) remaining in the wild, the species is listed as Critically Endangered by the the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The Xe Champhone Wetland located in Champhone District, Savannakhet Province represents the largest of Lao PDR’s two Ramsar sites (Wetland of International Importance) and is home to an abundance of aquatic biodiversity, as well as one of the world’s last remaining populations of the critically endangered Siamese crocodile, endangered turtle species and wetland birds. This year’s crocodile release ceremony was held in Donyanong Village, Xonnabouly District, Savannakhet Province, and was hosted by Mr. Soubin Luangduang, Chairperson of the District Administration Committee of Xonnabouly District. A total of 56 crocodiles were released into the wild. The event brought together over 100 participants, including representatives from the Department of Forestry under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Provincial Agriculture and Environment Office, Dr. Santi Saypanya, the Country Director of WCS Lao PDR, representatives from District Administration Committees from the four target districts (Champhone, Xonnabouly, Songkhone, and Xaybouly), members of the project implementation and management committees at both provincial and district levels, as well as target community members from 27 villages participating. Mr. Soubin Luangduang, Chairperson of the District Administration Committee of Xonnabouly District said in his opening remarks: “Based on the history of these Siamese crocodiles, local communities have a long history with them. In the past, these crocodiles lived and fed on aquatic species in natural water bodies such as ponds, oxbows and wetlands. This species has unique characteristics that distinguish it from other crocodile species, including its environmentally friendly behavior, distinctive coloration and patterns and its small to medium size. Historically, this species has not been known to attack humans or livestock.” “This ceremony is considered an important activity for the conservation and restoration of the Siamese crocodiles, as well as for the management of a species that is at risk of extinction in the future. The ceremony also included religious rites performed by monks, which help foster spiritual confidence and respect for the conservation of this species.” Mr. Soubin Luangduang continued. The wetland and its unique biodiversity, including the Critically Endangered Siamese crocodile, are culturally, ecologically and economically important to the local community and Laos. While crocodiles are not hunted, they remain under threat due to entanglement in fishing nets, the clearance of wetlands and seasonal draining of habitat for expanding dry-season rice cultivation. The Siamese crocodile is not considered to be an aggressive species and is not a threat to humans. Communities that reside close to the species’ habitat continue fishing and farming in the Xe Champhone wetlands as crocodiles hold a spiritual significance and bring good luck to them. A dedicated conservation program for the Siamese Crocodile in close collaboration with the local communities and government is in place in the four target districts (Xonnabouly, Champhone, Songkhone, and Xaybouly) of Savannakhet Province aiming to restore a viable population of this species. Eggs are collected and transported to the village administration office for incubation at ambient temperature for about two months. Once hatched, the baby crocodiles will be raised for about 75-80 days – at which time they will exceed 1 meter in length – and then released back into the wetlands.189 small crocodiles are currently being nursed by the crocodile conservation team at the village level. Since the start of the program, a total of 239 crocodiles have been successfully released back into the Xe Champhone wetlands. Around 10 nests are being found each year and based on these nest counts, an estimated population of 300-350 Siamese Crocodiles including small crocodiles inhabit the Xe Champhone Wetlands. jmauer@wcs.org Fri, 20 Mar 2026 03:38:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26013 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/25837/Signing-Ceremony-for-Memorandum-of-Understanding--Guardians-of-Lao-Nature-between-the-Ministry-of-Agriculture-and-Environment-and-the-Wildlife-Conservation-Society-Lao-PDR.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=25837 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25837&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/25837/Signing-Ceremony-for-Memorandum-of-Understanding--Guardians-of-Lao-Nature-between-the-Ministry-of-Agriculture-and-Environment-and-the-Wildlife-Conservation-Society-Lao-PDR.aspx Dr. Somvang Phimmavong, Director General of Department of Forestry, opened with thanks “on behalf of the Government, particularly the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the European Union for its continuous assistance and support. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the Wildlife Conservation Society Lao PDR for being a reliable and committed development partner. I look forward to our continued cooperation and shared success in the future.” The MoU signing was co-chaired by Dr. Somvang Phimmavong, Director General of Department of Forestry, Ambassador H.E. Mark Gallagher, the European Union and Santi Saypanya, Country Director of Wildlife Conservation Society Lao PDR, in the presence of representatives from Central, Provincial and District Government, the European Union Delegation, and the Wildlife Conservation Society. The Guardians of Lao Nature project is a partnership between the Wildlife Conservation Society and the Sustainable Agriculture and Environment Development Association (SAEDA) in joint efforts with the Lao government and local communities to establish strong civil society networks directly engaging in co-management of protected areas and protecting Lao biodiversity, forest ecosystems and wetlands. The European Union Ambassador H.E. Mark Gallagher emphasized “through this project, communities will be empowered to become true stewards of their environment. By strengthening civil society, enhancing co-management capacities, and fostering dialogue, Guardians of Lao Nature promotes a model where conservation, livelihoods, and local governance reinforce one another. It will also raise awareness and communicate more effectively the value of nature for the future of Lao PDR.” At the heart of the program is the Forest Development Village model, a nationally recognized framework under the new Protected Area Decree of the Forestry Law that empowers local communities living within or adjacent to conservation areas, to work directly with Protected Area and wetland authorities to protect forests, wildlife, and natural resources. “Forest Development Villages show that when communities are empowered as stewards of nature, both people and ecosystems benefit” explained Santi Saypanya, Country Director of Wildlife Conservation Society Lao PDR. The three year project will strengthen the role of civil society organizations in forest and natural resource management through the structure and networks of Forest Development Villages, improve participatory protected area and wetland management by enhancing the capacity of social networks to directly develop and implement village-level forest management plans and enable civil society organizations to contribute to national policy development on land and resource tenure, forest, protected area and wetland management. jmauer@wcs.org Fri, 23 Jan 2026 04:27:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25837 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/25836/Lao-PDR-Advances-Practical-Frameworks-for-No-Net-Loss-and-Net-Gain-of-Biodiversity-to-Support-a-Nature-Positive-Future.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=25836 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25836&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/25836/Lao-PDR-Advances-Practical-Frameworks-for-No-Net-Loss-and-Net-Gain-of-Biodiversity-to-Support-a-Nature-Positive-Future.aspx The Department of Forestry (DOF), in partnership with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Lao PDR, convened a national protected area managers’ consultative meeting in Luang Prabang to strengthen the implementation of recently adopted legal measures related to protected area management and responsible development. The meeting, held under the theme “Responsible Investment and Development for Positive Impacts on Nature,” was chaired by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Somvang Phimmavong, Director General of DOF, and brought together 50 participants from the protected area sector, the National University of Laos, and technical organizations, including WCS and CDE. The consultation represents a practical and incremental step in Lao PDR’s efforts to align national development priorities with the CBD Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) and its commitment to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. Recognizing that economic development remains essential for poverty reduction, livelihoods, and national growth, discussions focused on how to gradually and realistically operationalize the Biodiversity Mitigation Hierarchy (Avoid, Minimize, Restore, Offset) as a tool to guide investment and development toward achieving No Net Loss and, where feasible, Net Gain of biodiversity. “This meeting strengthens our collective ability to balance development with the protection of our natural heritage,” said Dr. Somvang Phimmavong. “By applying the mitigation hierarchy more rigorously, we can avoid damages and safeguard critical ecosystems while enabling responsible economic growth that benefits the people of Laos.” The meeting directly supports Activity 2.5 of the National Protected Area (NPA) Roadmap, endorsed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment in August 2024. Participants emphasized that: Avoidance of high biodiversity and irreplaceable ecosystems must be the first priority before any land-use conversion or development. Project proponents must conduct robust analysis of development alternatives in line with Lao natural resources and environmental laws, including the 2024 Environmental Protection Law, 2022 EIA Decree, the 2019 Forestry Law, the 2023 Wildlife Law, and Decrees governing forest and wetland areas. Stronger collaboration between project developers, relevant sectors, the Department of Forestry, the Department of Environment, and independent experts is essential to ensure credible, science-based decision-making that is workable within Lao’s institutional and economic context. To strengthen transparency and accountability, CDE presented practical tools such as the Land Concession Information System (LCIS) and the Quality of Investment (QI) assessment, which can help identify, track, and manage biodiversity risks and opportunities associated with investment projects. Reflecting on the process, Mrs. Manoly SISAVANH, Deputy Country Director, WCS Lao PDR, noted, "This meeting marks the beginning of an important process for Laos. The immediate priorities are to clearly identify and agree on no-go areas where avoidance must non-negotiably apply, and to develop robust scientific methods for calculating biodiversity loss and gain under the mitigation hierarchy. By working closely across sectors—both vertically and horizontally—and combining rigorous science with practical planning, Laos can gradually build a system that supports measurable biodiversity outcomes while also contributing to national sustainable development goals." The meeting concluded with initial agreement on the key elements that should inform a future data, legal, and policy framework on the Biodiversity Mitigation Hierarchy, which will be further developed through continued collaboration between the government and partners. Photo and news by: Department of Forestry jmauer@wcs.org Tue, 20 Jan 2026 03:12:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25836 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/25377/Bridging-Efforts-and-Opportunities-to-Strengthen-Environmental-Law-Research-and-Teaching-in-Lao-PDR.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=25377 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25377&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/25377/Bridging-Efforts-and-Opportunities-to-Strengthen-Environmental-Law-Research-and-Teaching-in-Lao-PDR.aspx Under the Cooperation Between the Faculty of Law and Political Science, National University of Laos and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) - Lao PDR. The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Lao PDR believes that capacity and education are key to protecting wildlife. By supporting teachers and students to better understand natural resource and environmental laws, WCS aims to build greater awareness of wildlife crime and inspire future leaders to help stop it. This effort supports the Party and Government’s policies on advancing a rule-of-law state. In the Academic Year 2023-2024, WCS Lao PDR started providing technical and financial support to the Faculty of Law and Political Science (FLP), National University of Laos. With WCS support, scientific legal research was conducted on three key topics: (1) Problems and Challenges in the Prosecution of Wildlife Trade Crime through Online Media, (2) Criminal Offence Regarding Wildlife Crime, and (3) Evidence Required by Forestry Authority and People’s Prosecutor in the Prosecution of Wildlife Crime.  All research papers will be used as lessons for officers and officials who engage in actual enforcement of the laws in Lao PDR. In the Academic Year 2024-2025, the cooperation and support on legal research expanded to include the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), Ministry of Justice (based in Luang Prabang province, Vientiane Capital, Savannakhet and Champasak provinces) and the Faculty of Law and Political Science (FLP) of Champasak University.   As part of this initiative, students took the lead, guided by their teachers, in developing thesis and final research projects on laws related to wildlife crime in Lao PDR. A total of nine research topics were pursued, including two at the Master’s level and seven at the Bachelor’s level. These cover critical issues such as wildlife crime and money laundering, corruption linked to wildlife crime, implementation of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in Lao PDR, and the challenges of prosecuting wildlife crimes at the local level.  These graduation thesis and final projects were completed, and the students reported on their findings on 29 August 2025 in Vientiane Capital. To ensure students' knowledge was enhanced with hands on practical implementation, the project provided support to law students from the Faculty of Law and Political Science, National University of Laos and the National Institute of Justice, Ministry of Justice (in Luang Prabang province)  who received internships in relevant government agencies, such as: Office of the People’s Prosecutor of local level. Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment and Department of Environmental Police, Ministry of Public Security.  To promote in-dept awareness and understanding about wildlife crime issues, lectures were also organized  to law students  and teachers on key topics, including; status of wildlife crimes occurring at international, regional level and in Lao PDR, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora (CITES), national legislations related to wildlife crime and practical enforcement in Lao PDR. Over the past two academic years, collaboration between the Faculty of Law and Political Science (FLP) at the National University of Laos and WCS Lao PDR has delivered promising results. With the next generation of law students who will become future lawyers and the teachers serving as the “printing blocks” of the nation, this partnership builds confidence that the next generation will play a vital role in advancing   conservation, preventing wildlife crime and strengthening environmental law in line with National policies. The Wildlife Crime Legal Research initiative activities with the NUOL-FLP were implemented under the Memorandum of Understanding between the Office of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor (OSPP) and WCS on Cooperative Action to Combat Wildlife Crime. Project funding support from the US State Department Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement and the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection project to support and strengthen criminal justice institutions and CITES actions against wildlife crime. jmauer@wcs.org Mon, 20 Oct 2025 08:11:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25377 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24810/The-Office-of-the-Supreme-Peoples-Prosecutor-Upholds-Increased-Efforts-to-Monitor-and-Prosecute-Crimes-Related-to-Natural-Resources-and-the-Environment.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=24810 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=24810&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24810/The-Office-of-the-Supreme-Peoples-Prosecutor-Upholds-Increased-Efforts-to-Monitor-and-Prosecute-Crimes-Related-to-Natural-Resources-and-the-Environment.aspx The Cooperative Action (Co-ACTION) against wildlife crime project between the Office of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor (OSPP) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has achieved results. The OSPP, convening local prosecutors across the country, has recognized and reached a shared understanding that: “Wildlife crime is a serious crime connected to transnational organized crime networks and large-scale businesses and is also linked to other serious crimes such as crimes related to weapons, narcotics, human trafficking, money laundering, and terrorism.” Wildlife crime has now been elevated to become a top priority of the prosecutors nationwide, with prosecutors to intensify the monitoring and prosecution of criminal cases involving natural resources and the environment in general, and specifically cases involving aquatic animals, wildlife, and forest resources. These must not be resolved through administrative measures but must be prosecuted, strictly following the judicial process, alongside related crimes such as money laundering. This is to ensure the implementation of the Party’s policies, state governance, and the rule of law, as well as to fulfill international treaties and conventions, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). On July 7, 2025, the President of the OSPP, issued Order No. 05/OSPP on Prosecution of Crimes Related to Natural Resources and the Environment, addressed to local and military prosecutors nationwide as follows: 1). For offenders of crimes against natural resources and the environment as specified in Articles 326–353 of the Penal Code (2017) and other relevant laws, prosecutors are strictly prohibited from coordinating with investigators to administratively adjudicate and settle cases, dismiss them, or release offenders; 2). In cases involving offenses related to natural resources and the environment, which are considered criminal offenses under the Penal Code and other laws, the Public Prosecutor shall monitor, inspect, and coordinate with the relevant authorities to conduct investigations and gather evidence in the money laundering case simultaneously in accordance with the law; 3). In cases of violations, those responsible must face strict legal consequences. You can read the full text of the order here.   jmauer@wcs.org Wed, 16 Jul 2025 01:39:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:24810 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24580/Celebrating-the-Successes-of-ECILL-Collaborative-Action-for-Protected-Areas.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=24580 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=24580&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24580/Celebrating-the-Successes-of-ECILL-Collaborative-Action-for-Protected-Areas.aspx The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, together with the European Union (EU), the Embassy of France to Lao PDR, and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) celebrated the success of the Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management (ECILL) Project. The project closing ceremony, held in Vientiane, was chaired by Vice Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, H.E. Mr Kikeo Singnavong, EU Ambassador to Lao PDR, H.E. Mr Mark Gallagher, Deputy Head of the Embassy of France to Lao PDR, Mr Alain Perrier, and attended by representatives from the Government of Laos, the EU, French Development Agency (AFD), WCS, and NPA Managers. Since its start in March 2020, the ECILL project has aimed to reduce current rates of biodiversity and habitat loss by adopting a holistic approach to landscape management. ECILL works to ensure the security of Lao PDR's forests and biodiversity, and to assist rural communities in sustainably managing their natural resources. The project is located in three priority landscapes of high biodiversity, ecosystem services, and natural capital value: (1) the Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park, (2) the Integrated Ecosystem and Wildlife Management Landscape in Bolikhamxay Province, and (3) the Xe Champhone Ramsar Wetlands in Savannakhet Province. The ECILL project, worth a total of €6.8 million, has been co-funded by the European Union and the Agence Française de Développement and implemented by WCS Lao PDR in joint efforts with the Lao government and local communities. Key achievements of the ECILL project include: Improved integrated protected area management and broader system-wide improvements in management effectiveness have been achieved with over 740,000 hectares of high biodiversity habitat, including forests, wetlands protected. Strengthened policy related to biodiversity conservation, forest, and wetland protection to support institutionalizing national protected area systems in Lao PDR. Established or expanded conservation enterprises that are climate-smart, linked to conservation outcomes that deliver economic benefits for communities, including community-based tourism and environment-friendly sustainable agriculture. Speaking at the closing ceremony, H.E. Mr Kikeo Singnavong, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Forestry said: “I thank the EU, AFD and WCS for their long-lasting partnership and efforts in contributing to these key successes to preserve Lao PDR’s unique forests and biodiversity. ECILL’s achievements are a testament of our shared commitments to conservation and biodiversity goals. We hope we can continue our positive engagement and collaboration after the ECILL project”. The Ambassador to the European Union in Lao PDR, H.E. Mr Mark Gallagher mentioned: “Over the past 5 years, the ECILL project has been instrumental in piloting a collaborative and holistic approach, to strengthen the security of the country’s forests and ecosystems, safeguarding the unique and rich biodiversity of Lao PDR, while creating sustainable opportunities for local communities.” “I would like to express profound gratitude to all our partners, including the Department of Forestry, the provincial authorities, the French Development Agency, and the Wildlife Conservation Society. Your dedication and support have been crucial to reaching our collective goals. Our gratitude also extends to the local communities and stakeholders who have embraced and participated in this initiative. Your engagement and commitment have been vital to the project's success”, added Mr Mark Gallagher. The Deputy Head of the French Embassy, Mr. Alain Perrier, emphasized that France, through the French Development Agency, would continue to support the government's efforts to ensure that Laos' forests, wetlands, and biodiverse landscapes remain a source of sustainable development for the country and its communities. The ECILL closing ceremony was preceded by a meeting engaging National Protected Areas (NPAs) managers from the 26 NPAs and NGO partners to create a collaborative action for Protected Areas towards the Mining-Forest Nexus and to strengthen partnerships. The workshop’s objective was to brainstorm on how to support the full and effective implementation of Prime Ministerial Orders no. 06 and 11 and Protected Areas policies through better oversight of mining concessions, stronger environmental impact assessments, and more robust enforcement of forestry and land laws. ““The issuance of Prime Ministerial Orders No. 06 and No. 11 establishes a robust and timely policy framework for the conservation of Lao PDR’s most biologically significant protected areas—particularly those within the Annamite Mountains, limestone karst landscapes, and high-altitude ecosystems. These areas harbor unique flora and fauna, including numerous endemic species found nowhere else in the world, thus reaffirming the vision of H.E. Kaisone Phomvihane, who described the forests of Lao PDR as ‘green gold.’ These protected landscapes may rightfully be considered the country’s most valuable ecological assets—its ‘green gold’ or natural diamonds. The Orders clearly underscore the urgent need to strengthen law enforcement, enhance governance, and fully integrate forest and environmental protection into national development strategies. The ECILL initiative has demonstrated that effective forest and environmental governance is not only feasible but also achievable when supported by strong political commitment, coordinated institutional efforts, and strategic policy coherence,” stated Dr. Somvang Phimmavong, Director General of the Department of Forestry. ECILL has supported and influenced key policy dialogues in natural resource management, providing both technical and financial contributions. By strategically engaging in high-level dialogues, ECILL has strengthened Laos’ standing in biodiversity conservation, ensuring continued political commitment beyond the ECILL project. As ECILL is closing, the established frameworks, strengthened institutional capacities, and multi-stakeholder partnerships will ensure that conservation remains a central pillar of Laos’ national agenda, paving the way for sustained environmental and economic benefits. The closing ceremony was attended by 70 people from the Department of Forestry of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Protected Area Management Sections, representative of the Government of Lao PDR at the national and subnational levels, the Embassy of France to Lao PDR, the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the European Union Delegation (EU), the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), and development partners. jmauer@wcs.org Mon, 19 May 2025 06:39:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:24580 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24540/Siamese-Crocodiles-released-as-Wetland-Information-Center-opens-in-Savannkhet.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=24540 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=24540&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24540/Siamese-Crocodiles-released-as-Wetland-Information-Center-opens-in-Savannkhet.aspx Government stakeholders and the Wildlife Conservation Society officially opened the Xe Champhone Wetland and Savannakhet Crocodile Information Center and released back 10 crocodiles into the Xe Champhone wetlands to restore this critically endangered species The opening ceremony for the Xe Champhone Wetland and Crocodile Information Center took place in Tansoum village, Champhone District, Savannakhet Province in presence of the Mr. Khammone Thilavong the Deputy Director of Provincial Forestry and Agriculture, Mr. Khamta Sinnasone the Deputy Governor of Champhone District, monks, the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and students. At the ceremony, 10 Siamese crocodiles were also released into the Xe Champhone wetlands to boost the existing population. With less than 1000 Siamese Crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis) remaining in the wild, this species is ranked as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The Xe Champhone Wetland located in Champhone District, Savannakhet Province represents the largest of Lao PDR’s two Ramsar sites (Wetland of International Importance) and is home to an abundance of aquatic biodiversity, as well as one of the world’s last remaining populations of the critically endangered Siamese crocodile, endangered turtle species, and wetland birds. The new Information Center offers an immersion in the incredible biodiversity of the Xe Champhone wetlands and showcases the conservation work carried out by the communities in partnership with local authorities and conservation partners. With educational panels displayed all along the visitors' path as well as wall murals on the Siamese crocodile lifes, the Xe Champhone wetland and crocodile information center invites visitors to discover and learn about the fascinating wildlife of Savannakhet province. "I hope that the opening of the Xe Champhone Wetland and Crocodile Information Center, along with today's release of the crocodiles, will bring lasting benefits to local communities as part of a long-term conservation effort. I also trust that everyone here shares a strong commitment to environmental preservation and the protection of these endangered species.",  Mr. Khammone Thilavong, Deputy Director of Provincial Forestry and Agriculture.  The wetland and its unique biodiversity, including the Critically Endangered Siamese crocodile, are culturally, ecologically, and economically important to the community of Tansoum Village and Laos. While crocodiles are not hunted, they remain under threat due to entanglement in fishing nets, the clearance of wetlands and seasonal draining of habitat for expanding dry-season rice cultivation. The Siamese crocodile is not considered to be an aggressive species and is not a threat to humans. Communities that reside close to the species’ habitat continue fishing and farming in the Xe Champhone wetlands as crocodiles hold a spiritual significance and bring good luck to them. A dedicated conservation program for the Siamese Crocodile in close collaboration with the local communities and government is in place in the four target districts (Xonnabouly, Champhone, Songkhone, and Xaybouly) of Savannakhet Province aiming to restore a viable population of this species. Eggs are collected and transported to the village administration office for incubation at ambient temperature for about two months. Once hatched, the baby crocodiles will be raised for about 32 months – at which time they will exceed 1 meter in length – and then released back into the wetlands. So far this year,  68 crocodiles have been released and 163 small crocodiles are currently being nursed by the crocodile conservation team at the village level. Since the start of the program, a total of 183 crocodiles have been successfully released back into the Xe Champhone wetlands. 6 to 8 nests are being found each year, and based on these nest counts, an estimated population of 200-250 Siamese Crocodiles inhabit the Xe Champhone Wetlands. This conservation program is part of the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Lao PDR’ (ECILL) project funded by the European Union and the Agence Française de Développement and implemented by WCS. The center opening ceremony and Crocodile release event was attended by over 180 people from the government of Lao PDR at the national and subnational levels, AFD, WCS, teachers and students.   jmauer@wcs.org Mon, 12 May 2025 03:52:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:24540 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24300/A-Bold-Step-for-Nature-Laos-Moves-Toward-Sustainable-Mining-Reform.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=24300 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=24300&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24300/A-Bold-Step-for-Nature-Laos-Moves-Toward-Sustainable-Mining-Reform.aspx WCS Lao PDR applauds the Lao Government for taking bold and timely action to safeguard the country's rivers, forests, and irreplaceable biodiversity. The issuance of Prime Minister's Order No. 06/PM, dated 7 March 2025, marks a major turning point in Laos' efforts to strengthen environmental governance and ensure that natural resource use benefits both people and nature. This landmark policy introduces transformative reforms to curb unsustainable mining practices, enforce environmental safeguards, and align the mining sector with Laos' conservation priorities and sustainable development goals. What's New? •⁠  ⁠Permanent nationwide ban on alluvial gold extraction-including gravel and sand suction used for gold recovery-long linked to riverbank erosion, water pollution, and aquatic habitat degradation. •⁠  ⁠Suspension of new metallic mineral project approvals until the end of the current government term. •⁠  ⁠Stronger inspection, monitoring, and legal enforcement to tackle illegal and environmentally harmful mining operations. •⁠  ⁠Mandatory ecological restoration of mining sites before land is returned to the state, ensuring degraded ecosystems are repaired. •⁠  ⁠Greater transparency and public participation in concession processes and environmental monitoring. Why it matters for conservation: This Order closes critical loopholes that have put forests, freshwater ecosystems, and wildlife habitats at risk. It represents a bold step toward: •⁠  ⁠Protecting biodiversity in ecologically sensitive and forested landscapes •⁠  ⁠Restoring degraded ecosystems and strengthening ecological resilience •⁠  ⁠Safeguarding essential ecosystem services for communities and wildlife •⁠  ⁠Enhancing accountability and rule of law in natural resource governance •⁠  ⁠Attracting responsible, conservation compatible investment WCS Lao PDR stands ready to support the Government of Lao PDR in turning this policy into action-through science-based guidance, technical expertise, and inclusive multi-stakeholder engagement. Together, we can generate momentum for a shift toward biodiversity-compatible mining in the forested landscapes of Laos, ensuring the country's natural wealth is preserved for generations to come. Full order in Lao Unofficial Translation by WCS jmauer@wcs.org Wed, 09 Apr 2025 04:02:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:24300 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24577/Lao-PDR-celebrates-National-and-World-Wildlife-Day-2025.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=24577 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=24577&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24577/Lao-PDR-celebrates-National-and-World-Wildlife-Day-2025.aspx National and World Wildlife Day was celebrated in Vientiane and presented the outcomes of the 78th meeting of the Standing Committee of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which took place in Geneva, Switzerland, last February. The event brought together the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the European Union (EU) Delegation to Lao PDR, the Wildlife Conservation Society and conservation partners, the Working Group 15.7 on Combating Wildlife Crime, the private sector, the National University of Laos and secondary schools from Vientiane. With over 1 million species estimated to be threatened with extinction globally and facing the intensifying triple planetary crisis (climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss), protecting wildlife and conserving ecosystems is more critical and urgent than ever. Lao PDR is recognized as a unique biodiversity hotspot and is home to some of the world’s biologically richest and most endangered terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and species. However, its exceptional biodiversity is declining due to climate change, illegal wildlife trade, hunting, and poaching coupled with high rates of deforestation causing fragmentation and loss of habitats. “The legal framework and national policies in place to regulate and protect the forestry sector in Laos are set to fulfill Lao PDR’s international commitments under Multilateral Environmental Agreements and national goal to restoring forest cover to 70% and conserving 70% of its total land area as forest areas, stated Dr Chanthakhone Boualaphanh, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, during her opening remarks. Today, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, on behalf of the Government, together with international conservation organizations, jointly organized the National and World Wildlife Day celebration. It is aimed to disseminate laws and regulations to entrepreneurs, business people, youth, local communities, and everyone in the society, so they understand the enforcement consequences of illegal hunting and wildlife trafficking and the importance of protecting endangered wildlife for a healthy ecosystem and socio-economic stability”, Dr Chanthakhone added. Speaking at the event, Mr Mark Gallagher, EU Ambassador to Lao PDR said: “As we gather today to celebrate Laos’ National Wildlife Day, it is important to reflect on our shared responsibility in protecting the country’s unique and irreplaceable natural heritage. Over the years, we have seen remarkable progress in Laos’ policy reforms for protected areas and wildlife conservation, with the adoption of the Protected Area Decree and its Roadmap, the Wildlife Law, the Aquatic Animals and Fisheries Law, and the CITES Decree. These frameworks equip Laos with stronger legal tools to manage its biodiversity and meet international commitments. However, while setting the right policy frameworks is essential, it is not enough. Effective conservation requires strong enforcement. In-situ conservation of forests and wetlands must remain a priority – not only for wildlife habitat protection, but also for the well-being of communities that depend on these ecosystems. Team Europe remains fully committed to supporting the Government of Laos and all local stakeholders in protecting and sustainably managing the country’s rich biodiversity for future generations”. During the meeting, the revised Decree (June 2024) on Management of International Trade in Endangered Species of Aquatic Animals, Wild Animals, and Wild Plants was presented, as well as the implementation and results of law enforcement to combat illegal wildlife trade and foster international cooperation with neighbouring countries. Through the various exhibition booths animated by the Department of Forestry, conservation partners and educational institutions, the event highlighted the conservation efforts and the contributions made to sustainability, wildlife, and biodiversity conservation in Lao PDR. National and World Wildlife Day is celebrated every year on March 3rd to highlight the urgent need for global attention and action toward addressing the declining numbers of endangered species and the shrinking of their natural habitat. The event was attended by over 300 people and was organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry with the support of the Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Laos (ECILL) project, co-funded by the European Union and the Agence Française de Développement and implemented by WCS Lao PDR.   jmauer@wcs.org Fri, 14 Mar 2025 04:24:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:24577 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24196/Roadmap-for-operationalizing-the-new-Protected-Area-policies-in-managing-and-financing-National-Protected-Areas.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=24196 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=24196&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24196/Roadmap-for-operationalizing-the-new-Protected-Area-policies-in-managing-and-financing-National-Protected-Areas.aspx First meeting of the Implementation Committee on the National Protected Areas Roadmap (NPA Roadmap) to outline the implementation process and establish a shared understanding. Following the endorsement of the Roadmap for National Protected Areas Management and Sustainable Financing (NPA Roadmap) on August 8, 2024, the NPA Roadmap Implementation Committee held its kick-off meeting on February 18–19 in Luang Namtha province, home to the ASEAN Heritage’s Nam Ha NPA. Chaired by Mr. Kikeo Singnavong, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Forestry and lead authority of the NPA Roadmap, the meeting brought together more than 70 key stakeholders, including protected area managers from all Laos’ 26 NPAs and conservation partners. Also in attendance were Ms. Cécile Leroy, representing the EU Delegation to Lao PDR to Lao PDR—one of the financiers of the roadmap’s development—and Ms. Manoly Sisavanh, Deputy Director of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), which provides technical assistance under the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Lao PDR’ (ECILL) project’. The NPA Roadmap is structured as a comprehensive three-year program, requiring US$3.5 million for collective implementation. It outlines the transition process into a new policy environment aimed at strengthening Laos’ NPA system to address the following priority policy goals: (1) Diversifying and empowering actors to protect and develop Laos’ forests. This includes supporting ‘Forest Development Villages’ with improved clarity about zones and land tenure. (2) Ensuring biodiversity no-net-loss when using forests such as applying concrete methods (i.e. Mitigation Hierarchy) to work with forest users to ensure their activities cause no net-loss of biodiversity and ecosystem value. (3) Enabling conservation-compatible businesses and improving compliance. This aims at proactively improving the investment environment for enterprises that support forest activities, and to ensure businesses are compliant with regulations and agreed plans effectively. (4) Improving sustainable financing for National Protected Areas. This entails pursuing multiple complementary strategies to increase access and stability to funds and financing mechanisms. The kick-off meeting of the NPA Roadmap Implementation Committee aims to establish a shared understanding among the Board, Advisors, Secretariat members, as well as potential Implementing Partners. As the Chair, Mr. Kikeo Singnavong, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Forestry opened with “Today’s meeting is very important for the various parties that will jointly implement this plan to discuss and understand what the four outcomes are and how each party will participate. This is key to ensure that the implementation of this management plan is highly efficient and effective and to aim for a systematic, strong, and unified management, conservation, development and implementation, including active cooperation from all relevant parties and local communities.”  During the meeting, the Protected Areas Decree (2023) and NPA Roadmap were presented, with a focus on the roadmap’s implementation plan to ensure a clear understanding among committee members, practitioners and stakeholders. Additionally, the NPA Roadmap Annual Workplan and Budget for 2025 were discussed in detail. The second day centered on the application of the Mitigation Hierarchy, identifying investment projects impacting NPAs or businesses operating within NPAs. Cecile Leroy, of the EU Delegation to Lao PDR provided opening remarks congratulating this  achievement,   “demonstrating its commitment to protect its natural assets, the EU would like to commend the government's move to protect the natural heritage with adopting bold new legislation during the few last years, especially with the adoption of the National Protected Area Decree back in June 2023, and subsequently by developing the roadmap for its implementation and financing that was adopted in August 2024, and more recently, in December, a committee was established to overview the implementation of the roadmap. So I'm very happy to see all of you this morning representing the local national protected area because your work in implementing this roadmap is really at the core of the success of Laos. Today is a great opportunity for taking stock of the recent policy development and for having a meaningful exchange on how to put this in motion.” The NPA Roadmap will enhance the Government of Lao PDR’s ownership in implementing its policies and vision in collaboration with partners and stakeholders. It serves as a strategic guide for the Protected Areas community to operationalize the PA policy agenda. Additionally, the roadmap provides a framework to align partner and stakeholder activities, ensuring consistency and synergy with national policy goals. The Government of Lao PDR therefore urges all partners and stakeholders to align their initiatives with the roadmap’s implementation. The Roadmap was developed with the technical support of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Lao PDR Program and financially supported by the European Union (EU) and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) under the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape management in Lao PDR’ (ECILL) project.   jmauer@wcs.org Thu, 20 Feb 2025 03:29:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:24196 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24014/The-Wildlife-Conservation-Society-held-its-Steering-Committee-Meeting-to-review-the-implementation-of-the-Ecosystem-Conservation-through-Integrated-Landscape-Management-in-Lao-PDR-ECILL.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=24014 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=24014&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24014/The-Wildlife-Conservation-Society-held-its-Steering-Committee-Meeting-to-review-the-implementation-of-the-Ecosystem-Conservation-through-Integrated-Landscape-Management-in-Lao-PDR-ECILL.aspx The Wildlife Conservation Society Lao PDR hosted the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Lao PDR’ (ECILL) project Steering Committee meeting co-chaired by Dr. Thoumthone Vongvisouk, Deputy Director General of the Department of Forestry, Ms. Veerle Smet, Head of Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Lao PDR, Mr. François-Xavier Duporge, Country Director of the Agence Française de Développement in Lao PDR and Dr. Santi Xaypanya, WCS Laos Country Director. The meeting aimed to update and review the project implementation progress and plans in the three landscapes: the Nam Et–Phou Louey National Park, Phou Sithone Endangered Species Conservation Area, and Nam Kading National Protected Area in Bolikhamxay province, and the Xe Champhone Ramsar Wetlands Complex in Savannakhet province. “I would like to thank the EU and AFD donors for their continued support in biodiversity protection in Lao PDR. I also take this opportunity to congratulate WCS and colleagues for successfully implementing the activities that will be pursued until the end of the project. We have made a lot of progress in the implementation of the ECILL project, which has provided major support to the Government of Lao PDR, including new policies and regulations”, expressed Dr. Thoumthone Vongvisouk, Deputy Director General of the Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. “The ECILL Project is part of a broader EU program ‘Landscapes for Our Future’ which supports 22 projects across 19 countries with solutions to context-specific land-use challenges around food and nutrition security, climate change, and land/forest biodiversity. Great achievements have been made in Lao PDR, congratulations to the Government and WCS for the successful outcomes including policy achievements such as the revision of the CITES Decree, said Ms. Veerle Smet, Head of Cooperation of the EU Delegation to Lao PDR. Engagement with the private sector, particularly in the hydropower, agriculture and linear infrastructure sectors, is an important component to ensure that potential environmental impacts are effectively managed and mitigated. However, challenges remain to achieve No-Net-Loss for biodiversity through the mitigation hierarchy, a key approach to harmonizing conservation and development. Speaking at the meeting, Mr. François-Xavier Duporge, Country Director of the AFD in Lao PDR underlined the good results in implementing the activities, including advanced empowerment of local communities and strengthening of national environmental policies. “The implementation of the Protected Areas Roadmap in Year 5 will be key to ensuring sustainable management, governance, and financing of the Protected Areas. Still, some challenges remain, such as engagement with the private sector and deforestation”, Mr. François -Xavier added. After four years of implementation, the ECILL project was scheduled to end in March 2024. A 15-month extension until May 2025 was approved last year by donors to continue supporting ongoing efforts in biodiversity protection in the three priority landscapes and fulfill the project commitments to the Lao government, local communities, and donors. Launched in March 2020, the ECILL project, worth a total of €6.8 million, has been co-funded by the European Union and the Agence Française de Développement and implemented by WCS Lao PDR in joint efforts with the Lao government and local communities to protect the Lao PDR’s unique biodiversity and sustainable use of natural resources. The ECILL Steering Committee meeting took place on November 22nd 2024 in Vientiane and brought together 20 representatives from the Department of Forestry of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Bolikhamxay and Savannakhet Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office, the Department of Water Resources of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Protected Area Management Sections in Houaphan and Bolikhamxay, the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the European Union Delegation (EU) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). jmauer@wcs.org Fri, 22 Nov 2024 04:12:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:24014 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23999/Building-capacity-and-fostering-collaborative-approaches-across-Southeast-Asia-to-tackle-threats-to-global-health-security.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=23999 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=23999&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23999/Building-capacity-and-fostering-collaborative-approaches-across-Southeast-Asia-to-tackle-threats-to-global-health-security.aspx The Kick-Off Leadership Workshop of the Pandemic Prevention Leadership Initiative (PPLI) Fellowship program took place in Bangkok, Thailand to introduce an immersive learning experience focused on key topics relevant to One Health and the prevention and mitigation of high consequence pathogen spillover in live animal markets.  The six-day workshop focusing on providing scenario-driven and hands-on learning, gathered for the first time the 19 Fellows from the ASEAN countries, PPLI teams including the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), WCS Laos, WCS Vietnam, WCS Indonesia, EpiEcos, and the University of California – Davis. The Pandemic Prevention Leadership Initiative (PPLI) is designed to strengthen collaborative approaches in Southeast Asia to address threats to global health security and biodiversity conservation posed by the unregulated trade in wildlife species. The PPLI delivers specialized in-person and remote training to Fellows to strengthen working knowledge and skills in the following key areas: Live animal trade chains – source to markets/consumers Field Biorisk Management: Biosafety and Biosecurity Bio-surveillance Risk Assessment, Risk Mitigation, and Risk Modelings Outbreak Detection and Response During the workshop, fellows explored the fundamentals of risk assessment, management, modeling, and communication; surveillance; and outbreak response in the context of wildlife trade and live animal markets in Southeast Asia. WCS Lao PDR Program presented the Laos Wildlife Health Surveillance’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) aimed at establishing a functional surveillance network in response to disease events in wildlife through a One Health approach.  As part of the workshop’s program, participants made field trips to Klong Toey Wet Market, Khao Yai National Park, and Chatuchak Market (Live Animal/Wildlife Species) to enhance the experience-based learning. “I think it is very important for WCS as a global wildlife conservation organization to engage with future leaders in regions of the world where we are working towards wildlife conservation goals and focused on implementing a One Health approach. We’ve had the opportunity through this Initiative to meet and network with people from multiple fields related to One Health coming from countries across Southeast Asia. t’s the kind of network that we would not be able to be a part of or be a part of developing without a fellowship program like this one.”, said Amanda Fine, Director of One Health at WCS . The PPLI promotes capacity strengthening in early to mid-career professionals by incorporating the Pandemic Prevention Fellows Program, which utilizes a cohort approach and case-based training to directly support the development of a multidisciplinary network of leaders across the Southeast Asia region to address the ever-evolving and expanding global health and security threats related to zoonotic spillover of high-consequence pathogens and associated practices impacting wildlife populations. This initiative spread over 15 months and involving 10 countries, is a collaborative effort between the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), the University of California-Davis, and EpiEcos, funded by the US Department of State’s Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation.   jmauer@wcs.org Wed, 13 Nov 2024 08:32:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:23999 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23737/High-Level-Dialogue-on-Biodiversity-Conservation-and-Impact-Mitigation-Policies-Held-with-Laos-National-Assembly-to-Support-Sustainable-Development.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=23737 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=23737&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23737/High-Level-Dialogue-on-Biodiversity-Conservation-and-Impact-Mitigation-Policies-Held-with-Laos-National-Assembly-to-Support-Sustainable-Development.aspx The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, in cooperation with the Wildlife Conservation Society, presented the biodiversity conservation status and mitigation policies for Lao PDR’s forests and wildlife, as well as Multilateral Environmental Agreements, to National Assembly Members. This high-level meeting was chaired by H.E. Mme. Pingkham Lasasimma, President of the Economic, Technology, and Environment Committee of the National Assembly of Lao PDR and followed by her Vice President H.E. Mr. Maniso Xamounty and Dr Santi Saypanya, Country Director of WCS Lao PDR Program The meeting took place at the National Assembly of Lao PDR in Vientiane, , with the aim of enhancing Parliament members’ understanding of Laos’ forests and wildlife and on mitigation measures on biodiversity impacts caused by development or investment projects. Lao PDR is one of the most biodiverse countries in Southeast Asia, well-known for its rich biodiversity and endemic wildlife species. With 26 National Protected Areas and seven declared as ‘National Parks’, a category of higher protection, Lao PDR faces numerous challenges in the sustainable management of biodiversity and natural resource use. Main threats to conservation include climate change, illegal wildlife trade, hunting, and poaching coupled with high rates of deforestation, causing fragmentation and loss of habitats. Mme. Pingkham Lasasimma, remarked: "In recent years, Lao PDR has experienced rapid economic growth marked by increased investments in large infrastructure projects such as railways, roads and mining industries, alongside the expansion of natural resources use in areas such as hydropower, agriculture and forestry. These developments have impacted land use and forest cover, converting significant portions of forested land. Recognizing the value of these natural resources, Lao PDR has committed to a path of sustainable development through its Green Growth Strategy. We have enacted policies and laws—including the National Green Growth Strategy, Land Law, Forest Law, Wildlife Law, Aquatic Animal and Fishery Law, and a robust framework for Environmental Impact Assessment and Strategic Environmental Assessment. These policies serve as essential tools to protect our natural resources, mitigate investment impacts, conserve biodiversity, and safeguard ecosystem services for future generations."   The meeting focused on three key objectives: Provide an in-depth overview of Lao PDR’s forest systems, and international conservation frameworks, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and its significance for Lao PDR, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Ramsar Convention, and the Lao PDR Wildlife List. Enhance Awareness and Understanding on Integrated Landscape Management, a comprehensive framework that addresses conservation and sustainable land use by considering the interconnectedness of ecosystems, communities, and economic needs within protected area and wetland landscapes aiming at achieving sustainable development goals. Enhance environmental assessments and impact mitigation in investment and development projects, emphasizing the adoption of the ‘mitigation hierarchy’ to prevent and mitigate adverse impacts on biodiversity, aiming  to engage parliamentary members in recognizing the necessity of incorporating environmental considerations into project planning and implementation, ensuring that sustainable development aligns with our national and international conservation commitments. Through this dialogue, we seek to foster responsible investment practices that contribute to the protection of our natural heritage while promoting economic growth. Ms. Manoly Sisavanh, Deputy Country Director of the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Lao PDR Program, presented the Mitigation Hierarchy—a key approach to harmonizing conservation and development. “Our discussion emphasized both the value of this approach and the challenges Laos faces, such as building technical capacity, enhancing coordination among government bodies, and strengthening data access to support informed decision-making," she noted. "It was inspiring to see the interest and thoughtful engagement from National Assembly members, who hold the vital responsibility of overseeing the implementation of laws, socio-economic plans, and national projects. Their commitment to sustainable development is essential to ensuring that Laos’ growth aligns with environmental protection and social equity. Together, we can work toward a future where development not only preserves but also supports the rich biodiversity of our country, benefitting all its people sustainably.” The meeting was an opportunity for participants to share knowledge, experience, and best practices in biodiversity conservation in line with Lao PDR’s sustainable economic development for the coming years. The high-level meeting, supported by WCS Lao PDR and the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape management in Lao PDR (ECILL) project’ financed by the Agence Française de Développement and the European Union, was attended by more than 60 people from the National Assembly, the National Assembly’s Economic, Environment, and Technology Committee the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Wildlife Conservation Society. jmauer@wcs.org Fri, 01 Nov 2024 02:07:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:23737 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23683/The-Lao-Government-disseminates-the-Protected-Areas-policies-nationwide-to-safeguard-biodiversity-and-secure-communities-livelihoods.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=23683 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=23683&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23683/The-Lao-Government-disseminates-the-Protected-Areas-policies-nationwide-to-safeguard-biodiversity-and-secure-communities-livelihoods.aspx The Government of Lao PDR disseminated the new policies related to the Protected Areas (PA) Decree in the central, northern, and southern regions to ensure its successful implementation across the country. The dissemination workshops took place in Bolikhamxay, Oudomxay and Champassak provinces in presence of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Ministry of Justice, the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Wildlife Conservation Society, National Parks and Protected Area Management Offices, and the ecotourism private sector. Lao PDR is covered by 26 National Protected Areas (NPAs), among these NPAs, seven of them were declared were declared ‘National Parks’, a category of higher protection such as the Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park. These NPAs are home to a rich biodiversity and several endemic and threatened species. Lao PDR’s biodiversity is currently under threat due to climate change, illegal wildlife trade, hunting, and poaching coupled with high rates of deforestation causing fragmentation and loss of habitats. Adopted in June 2023, the new PA decree raises the standard, priority, and profile of Protected Areas to align with national goals and meet international standards. Communities living in surrounding villages will be engaged in the co-management of the PAs through the ‘Forest Development Village’ approach with the aim to balance benefits between people and nature. “This workshop is an important milestone for the implementation of these key legislations. The PA legal framework and policies to regulate and protect the forestry sector are set to fulfil Lao PDR’s international commitments under Multilateral Environmental Agreements.”, said Mr. Somboune Vongphachan, Deputy Director General of Department of Legislation, Ministry of Justice. Bringing together over 90 practitioners from 6 provinces in the Central region, 80 stakeholders from 4 provinces in the South region, and 100 practitioners from 8 provinces in the North region. The Protected Areas Policy Dissemination Workshops aimed to present the new PA policies and the Roadmap for National Protected Areas Management and Sustainable Financing and the NPA’s access to state funds to ensure a clear understanding and successful implementation. Speaking at the dissemination workshop for the central region, Mrs. Cécile Leroy, Programme Manager of the European Union Delegation to Lao PDR outlined “Lao is home to the world’s most charming rainforests and counts many unique landscapes including national parks and protected areas, recognized as such for their unique ecosystems and biodiversity. The national treasure must be protected, and the protection starts with awareness, and dissemination of policy to ensure appropriate implementation and law enforcement.”. The PA Roadmap will facilitate collaborative partnerships to sustainably finance the management of protected areas across Lao PDR. It will be a tool to help align the partners and stakeholders’ activities for consistency and synergy with policy goals. “WCS worked hand in hand with the Lao government, protected area practitioners, and key stakeholders to develop and disseminate this important national legislation. This decree is a big bold step for biodiversity protection in Lao PDR ensuring better management and governance of the biodiversity-rich zones in Laos. We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Lao government and all PA stakeholders to ensure its successful implementation following the rule of law for the benefits of nature and people of Lao PDR”, said Mrs. Manoly Sisavanh, Deputy Country Director of WCS Lao PDR. The three PA policies dissemination workshops were attended by more than 270 people from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, National Parks and Protected Area Management Offices, relevant sectoral provincial and district offices, forest development village representatives, development partners, and the private sector. The PA Decree and NPA Roadmap were developed with the technical support of the Wildlife Conservation Society within the framework of the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape management in Lao PDR (ECILL) project’, financed by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and the European Union (EU). jmauer@wcs.org Mon, 14 Oct 2024 07:08:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:23683 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23601/From-Policy-to-Practice-Turning-Protected-Area-Policies-into-Reality.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=23601 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=23601&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23601/From-Policy-to-Practice-Turning-Protected-Area-Policies-into-Reality.aspx The Government of Lao PDR adopted the new Decree on Protected Areas (PAs) on June 20th 2023, marking a major milestone for biodiversity protection in Lao PDR. Turning Protected Area Policies into reality requires dissemination and clear understanding by practitioners. Lao PDR’s biodiversity is currently under threat due to climate change, illegal wildlife trade, hunting and poaching coupled with high rates of deforestation causing fragmentation and loss of habitats. The legal framework and policies to regulate and protect the forestry sector in Laos are set to fulfil Lao PDR’s international commitments under Multilateral Environmental Agreements. The Protected Areas Decree Dissemination Workshop for the northern region was co-chaired by Director of Oudomxay Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office, Phimmasene Khounsilivong, Deputy Director General of Department of Legislation, Ministry of Justice, Somboune Vongphachan, and Deputy Director of Protected Areas Management Division, Department of Forestry, Bounpone Phouttha-Amath. Bringing together over 70 practitioners from 8 provinces in the Northen region from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of National Resources and Environmental, the Department of Forestry, the National Park, and Protected Area Management Unit. The DDG Somboune Vongphachan, stressed “this workshop is is an important milestone for the implementation of this key legislation.” After three years in the making, this decree raises the standard, priority, and profile of PAs to align with national goals and meet international standards. Communities living in surrounding villages will be engaged in the co-management of the PAs through the ‘Forest Development Village’ approach with the aim to balance benefits between people and nature. Furthermore, the updated decree clarifies eligible PA use categories - for public, family, customary and business benefits - which entail the rights and responsibilities of users. This decree looks also carefully into balancing conservation with development aiming at applying the ‘Mitigation Hierarchy’ for business use to avoid or mitigate negative investment impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services to achieve no net loss, or net gain. The decree will facilitate partnerships to sustainably finance the management of protected areas in Lao PDR. “WCS worked hand in hand with the Lao government, protected area practitioners and key stakeholders to develop and disseminate this important national legislation. This decree is a big bold step for biodiversity protection in Lao PDR ensuring better management and governance of the biodiversity-rich zones in Laos. We are very proud to have been able to contribute to it within the framework of the AFD and EU financed ECILL project.  We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Lao government and all PA stakeholders to ensure its successful implementation following the rule of law for the benefits of nature and people of Lao PDR”, said Mrs. Manoly Sisavanh, Deputy Country Director of WCS Lao PDR.   jmauer@wcs.org Tue, 17 Sep 2024 08:47:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:23601 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23379/The-Ministry-of-Agriculture-and-Forestry-endorses-the-Roadmap-for-National-Protected-Areas-Management-and-Sustainable-Financing-to-ensure-its-successful-implementation-across-Lao-PDR.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=23379 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=23379&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23379/The-Ministry-of-Agriculture-and-Forestry-endorses-the-Roadmap-for-National-Protected-Areas-Management-and-Sustainable-Financing-to-ensure-its-successful-implementation-across-Lao-PDR.aspx Following the adoption of the new Decree on Protected Areas (PA) in June 2023 by the Government of Lao PDR, the Roadmap for National Protected Areas Management and Sustainable Financing has been endorsed by the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Assoc. Prof. Linkham Douangsavanh on August 8th 2024. The Roadmap serves as the reference guide for all PA stakeholders including the Lao Government, development partners, private sector, NGOs/CSOs, academia and local communities who will play a crucial role in the implementation of the Decree.  Lao PDR is covered by 26 National Protected Areas (NPAs), among these NPAs, six of them were declared ‘National Parks’, a category of higher protection such as the Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park. These NPAs are home to a rich biodiversity and several endemic and threatened species. The country’s biodiversity is currently under threat due to climate change, illegal wildlife trade, unsustainable hunting and poaching coupled with high rates of deforestation causing fragmentation and loss of habitats. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Somvang Phimmavong Director General of Department of Forestry said “The Roadmap is designed as a comprehensive three-year program that maps how the transition process into the new policy environment will be orchestrated for NPAs. The Roadmap architecture is defined by a ‘results framework’ with an objective, a series of intended outcomes, activities, and an estimated budget.” The NPA Roadmap was developed to respond to the following priority policy goals, the first of which is diversifying and empowering actors to protect and develop our forests. This includes supporting ‘Forest Development Villages’ with improved clarity about zones and land tenure. The second proprity is to ensure biodiversity no- net-loss when using forests, such as applying concrete methods for forest users to ensure their activities cause no net-loss of biodiversity and ecosystem value. The third priority is to enable conservation-compatible businesses and improving compliance. This aims at proactively improving the investment environment for enterprises that support forest activities, and to effectively ensure businesses are compliant with regulations and agreed plans. The fourth goal is to improve sustainable financing for National Protected Areas. This entails pursuing multiple complementary strategies to increase access and stability to funds and financing mechanisms. EU Ambassador Ina Marčiulionytė commented:  “The EU is proud to have supported the development of this roadmap. We believe that it will help identify stable sources of funding to enable a long-lasting protection scheme of the natural assets of Laos. This is a meaningful deliverable in the context of the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework”. The Roadmap will strengthen the Government of Lao PDR in exercising its ownership and pursuit of its policies and vision to its partners and stakeholders. The Roadmap will be a guiding map for the Department of Forestry and the PA Division to keep track of the policy agenda. It will be a tool to help align the partners and stakeholders’ activities for consistency and synergy with policy goals. Therefore, the Government of Lao PDR urges all partners and stakeholders to use and anchor their activities to the Roadmap. “WCS worked hand in hand with the Lao government, protected area practitioners and key stakeholders to develop this NPA Roadmap. We are very much looking forward to its implementation for better management and governance of the biodiversity-rich zones across Laos”, said Mrs. Manoly Sisavanh, Deputy Country Director of WCS Lao PDR. The Roadmap was developed with the technical support of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Lao PDR Program and financially supported by the European Union (EU) and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) under the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape management in Lao PDR’ (ECILL) project.   jmauer@wcs.org Fri, 16 Aug 2024 01:43:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:23379 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/22979/Laos-launches-Standard-Operating-Procedures-for-wildlife-health.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=22979 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22979&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/22979/Laos-launches-Standard-Operating-Procedures-for-wildlife-health.aspx The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry disseminated the Standard Operating Procedure for Wildlife Health Surveillance in Lao PDR to prevent and reduce disease risks to human, animal and environmental health Relevant government sectors from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the Wildlife Conservation Society launched the Wildlife Health Surveillance Standard Operating Procedure during a dissemination meeting in Vientiane to establish a functional surveillance network in response to disease events in wildlife through a One Health approach. Maintaining and monitoring wildlife health is important for conservation, ecosystem integrity, sustainable development, and biosafety and biosecurity. There is a global understanding that the health of human beings, animals, and the environment are intrinsically connected and are profoundly impacted by human activities. Outbreaks of diseases originating in wildlife such as Ebola, SARS, and COVID-19 have served as devastating reminders that to protect human health, we must monitor and reduce the risk of emerging zoonoses. Other diseases shared between livestock and wildlife, such as African Swine Fever, can have catastrophic consequences for both agricultural livelihoods and for vulnerable wild species. It is, therefore, essential for countries to promptly detect and manage issues related to wildlife health, and to build an early warning system to investigate and respond to wildlife morbidity/mortality events which may have widespread health implications for people and/or their domestic animals, wildlife populations themselves, and the environment. The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Wildlife Health Surveillance in Lao PDR has been designed to be the standard technical document for the implementation of wildlife health surveillance in the country. This SOP is to be applied when wildlife is found sick or dead of unknown causes in natural habitats, wildlife farms, zoos, wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centers, circuses, along the trade chain, in communities, or otherwise. The purpose is to provide technical guidance to relevant stakeholders, including government, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations working in wildlife conservation, in the surveillance, investigation, and control of, and response to, wildlife morbidity and mortality events and disease outbreaks with aims to reduce disease risks to human, animal, and environmental health and the associated impacts on the economy and livelihoods. Speaking at the meeting, Dr. Souphavanh Keovilay, Deputy Director General of the Department of Livestock and Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry said “the Standard Operating Procedure forwildlife health surveillance in Lao PDR is critical to ensure early detection of and response to disease events in wildlife. I would like to thank the various stakeholders for their involvement and input to the development of this SOP to ensure that it meets the needs of all parties involved.” The SOP defines the responsibilities of each relevant agency and outlines the procedures to follow when detecting incidents of unusual wildlife morbidity and/or mortality and wildlife disease outbreaks. This includes procedures for data collection, reporting lines, sampling and carcass collection, and diagnostics to determine the cause of illness or death, as well as basic guidelines on wildlife disease outbreak management, cooperation with relevant parties, and wildlife health data management procedures. “I would like to congratulate the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry in developing and adopting this SOP into national policy, the first of its kind in Lao PDR, which will have a significant impact on the country in responding to disease outbreaks in wildlife and preventing further transmission to humans, livestock, and wildlife”, expressed Dr. Bounheuang Kounnavong, Public Health Specialist, U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA).“I wish a successful implementation and dissemination of this SOP in all 18 provinces across the country”, he added. As part of the dissemination meeting, an overview and content of the SOP was presented by Dr Watthana Theppagna, Deputy Director of the National Animal Health Laboratory Center, Department of Livestock and Fisheries, and followed by questions and inputs from participants to effectively implement the SOP on the ground. Roles and Responsibilities of the National Wildlife Health Surveillance Steering Committee were also presented with a view to cooperate with relevant sectors to monitor and evaluate the implementation of this SOP and to establish central level governance. Lastly, WCS Lao PDR Program presented upcoming projects and future direction in the framework of the implementation of the National Wildlife Health Surveillance. Dr. Santi Saypanya, Country Director of WCS Lao PDR Program added “This SOP led by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry with the support of the Wildlife Conservation Society Lao PDR Program and in extensive consultation with experts and technicians at both central and local levels, will allow to strengthen the capacity of both government stakeholders and communities in addressing emerging health threats through inter-sectoral collaborations in Lao PDR”. The implementation of this SOP will allow wildlife health surveillance in Lao PDR to be in line with international standards and guidelines of the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH). The successful development of the SOP was made possible thanks to the support from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s Biological Threat Reduction Program (BTRP) under the United States Department of Defense. The dissemination workshop, held at the Lao Plaza Hotel, was attended by over 80 people from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (Department of Livestock and Fisheries, Department of Forestry, Department of Forestry Inspection), the Ministry of Health (Department of Communicable Disease Control), The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (Department of Environment), Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Offices of 18 Lao provinces, the Wildlife Conservation Society, Development Partners, international organizations and the National University of Laos and funded by the U.S Department of State. jmauer@wcs.org Tue, 23 Jul 2024 03:00:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22979 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/22748/WCS-partners-with-Bolikhamxay-Provincial-Agriculture-and-Forestry-Office-to-create-a-new-National-Park-and-safeguard-high-biodiversity-areas.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=22748 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22748&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/22748/WCS-partners-with-Bolikhamxay-Provincial-Agriculture-and-Forestry-Office-to-create-a-new-National-Park-and-safeguard-high-biodiversity-areas.aspx     WCS is supporting the Protected Area Management Section of Bolikhamxay Province, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, in the creation of a new National Park, by combining two protected areas and two protection forests: Phou Sithone Endangered Species Conservation Area and Phou Chomvoy Provincial Protected Area and the Nam Chat Nam Pan Protection Forest which connects the two protected areas as well as the Nam Chouane Nam Xang Protection Forest, which is also the Biodiversity Offset Site to the Nam Ngiep 1 Power Project. These areas, situated in Central Laos along the border with Vietnam and covering an area of about 1,800 km2, will create a biodiversity corridor along the Annamite Mountains to connect Nakai Nam Theun and Hin Nam No National Parks with the Pù Mát National Park in Vietnam, to allow wildlife to move undisturbed. The establishment of this National Park will enhance the preservation of the rich biodiversity and natural resources covering the Northern Annamite Mountain Range, which has been declared as one of the 200 most important ecoregions in the world, having amongst the highest concentrations of endemic species of any continental area in the world. The area is also well-known for its thriving Gibbon populations and is home to the elusive Saola, also called Spindlehorn or Asian Unicorn, one of the world’s rarest large mammals, a forest-dwelling bovine and native to the Annamite Mountain Range. The process for the creation of a National Park in Lao PDR requires not only information about biodiversity and the state of the forest, but also informs about the socio-economic status of the communities living in the villages and along the proposed area. Protected Areas support the surrounding local communities with Non-Timber Forest Products and water for agriculture and household consumption as well as regular water flow to the nearby hydropower plants. These are called Forest Ecosystem Services, which are vital for the villages living in and around protected areas and even further away. The first of a series of biodiversity assessments in Nam Chat Nam Pan revealed the uniqueness of the area, with ecosystems not seen in the other parts of the Annamite Mountains. More assessments are following to provide more required information for the declaration of the entire area as a National Park. This biodiversity program has received financial assistance from the Rainforest Trust working to protect the most threatened tropical forests, saving endangered wildlife through partnerships and community engagement.     jmauer@wcs.org Thu, 06 Jun 2024 09:19:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22748 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/22396/Conservationists-from-Thai-Conservation-study-tour-to-restore-the-critically-endangered-Siamese-crocodile.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=22396 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22396&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/22396/Conservationists-from-Thai-Conservation-study-tour-to-restore-the-critically-endangered-Siamese-crocodile.aspx Researchers and conservationists from Thailand visit the Xe Champhone Wetlands in Savannakhet Province, Lao PDR, as part of a conservation study tour to restore the critically endangered Siamese crocodile A delegation from Thailand consisting of researchers and staff affiliated with the Department of National Parks (DNP), Wildlife and Plant Conservation and faculty members from Kasetsart University, as well as staff from the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Thailand, visited Savannakhet province, Lao PDR, to conduct a study tour of the WCS implemented Siamese crocodile conservation project in the Xe Champhone wetlands.   Thailand is looking to bolster wild populations of Siamese crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis), as although the species still occurs in several different protected areas, the individuals persist in such isolation that there has been no recent successful breeding in the wild. WCS Lao PDR advised Thai National Park authorities on how they can increase the population of Siamese crocodiles within their area. In the Xe Champhone wetlands, WCS Lao PDR has been collaborating with government and local communities to strengthen the population of Siamese crocodiles through a head-starting program, incubating egg clutches and rearing hatchlings for about two years until they are ready for release back into the wild. This gives the young crocodiles a greatly improved chance of survival, a head-start through the most dangerous period of their lives. The program has reduced mortality among the young crocodiles from 90-95% to less than 5%, thereby boosting population recovery trajectories. Dr. Steven G. Platt, WCS’ Conservation Herpetologist for Southeast Asia, guided the group to the Tansoum village head-starting facility on the first day of the study tour, with the Tansoum community hosting the visiting group and explaining how they take care of the hatchlings. The second day was devoted to information sharing through presentations given by Dr. Platt on the head-starting work that has been done under the Xe Champhone project and a presentation given by Mr. Phaksouliya Phommatheth, WCS’s Xe Champhone Project Coordinator, on the overall progress of the project. The visitors from Thailand also introduced their crocodile conservation work including the DNP’s Siamese Crocodile Reintroduction Project in Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary presented by Ms. Chananrat Nuankaew from the Wildlife Research Division and Mr. Weerapong Korawat, head of Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary; Petchburi River Survey in Kaeng Krachan National Park presented by Mr. Yann Ounsing, Deputy of Kaeng Krachan National Park. Dr. Manoon Pliosungnoen, Program Manager for WCS Thailand said “Although it was a relatively short visit, we learned a lot from the discussion with the community leaders in Tansoum village and from the meeting with PAFO and WCS Laos. There might still be some challenges for the Thai government to promote the recovery of the species at the site near the villages owing to negative attitudes toward crocodiles. However, this is not the issue at the current DNP’s priority site, i.e., Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary. We have learned that improving people’s attitudes to conserve the species may be possible through improving awareness and collaboration within and among communities like this remarkable community-led conservation project in Xe Champhone.” Mr. Phaksouliya Phommatheth said “we are proud to have hosted a recent WCS team from Cambodia and now this official team from Thailand coming to learn from our project, based on our success in head-starting this species together with local communities. We thank the support received from our donors and the government of Lao PDR, to have enabled this success. In the future, we hope to continue building our regional collaboration on saving Siamese Crocodiles.” This conservation program is part of the Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Lao PDR (ECILL) project, co-funded by the European Union and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and implemented by WCS Lao PDR in partnership with the Government of Lao PDR.   jmauer@wcs.org Mon, 29 Apr 2024 04:35:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22396 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/22229/Government-stakeholders-and-the-Wildlife-Conservation-Society-released-Siamese-Crocodiles-back-into-the-wild-aiming-to-restore-this-critically-endangered-species-in-the-Xe-Champhone-wetlands.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=22229 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22229&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/22229/Government-stakeholders-and-the-Wildlife-Conservation-Society-released-Siamese-Crocodiles-back-into-the-wild-aiming-to-restore-this-critically-endangered-species-in-the-Xe-Champhone-wetlands.aspx 37 Siamese crocodiles were released back into their natural habitat in the Xe Champhone Wetlands, Savannakhet province, as part of a ceremony in presence of the Vice Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Mr. Chanthanet Boualapha, the Vice-Governor of Savannakhet Province, Mr. Senesak Soulysak,  the Deputy Governor of Songkhone District, Monks, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and students. With less than 1000 Siamese Crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis) remaining in the wild, this species is ranked as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The Xe Champhone Wetland located in Champhone District, Savannakhet Province represents the largest of Lao PDR’s two Ramsar sites (Wetland of International Importance) and is home to an abundance of aquatic biodiversity, as well as one of the world’s last remaining populations of the critically endangered Siamese crocodile, endangered turtle species, and wetland birds. Crocodiles are revered by local communities in Laos who believe that they act as guardians to the water bodies they inhabit and the spirits of lakes and ponds. While crocodiles are not hunted, they remain under threat due to entanglement in fishing nets, the clearance of wetlands and seasonal draining of habitat for expanding dry-season rice cultivation. The Siamese crocodile is not considered to be an aggressive species and is not a threat to humans. Communities that reside close to the species’ habitat continue fishing and farming in the Xe Champhone wetlands as crocodiles hold a spiritual significance and bring good luck to them. Mr. Chanthanet Boualapha, Vice Minister of Natural Resources and Environment stressed that the government is determined to pursue its efforts with conservation partners and local communities to protect endangered species and critical habitats in Savannakhet province and throughout the country. “I would like to congratulate and extend my sincere gratitude to the donors including the European Union and the Agence Francaise de Developpement for their continued assistance and financial support in the field of conservation”, Mr Chanthanet added. A dedicated conservation program for the Siamese Crocodile in close collaboration with the local communities and government is in place in the four target districts (Xonnabouly, Champhone, Songkhone, and Xaibouly) of Savannakhet Province aiming to restore a viable population of this species. Since 2019, during the spawning season between the end of May and July of every year, WCS has been locating and counting Siamese crocodile nests in hard-to-access areas. Nests and crocodile surveys have become more efficient since the recent use of drone technology. The eggs are collected and transported  to the village administration office for incubation at ambient temperature for about two months. Once hatched, the baby crocodiles will be raised for about 32 months – at which time they will exceed 1 meter in length – and then released back into the wetlands. 124 small crocodiles are currently being nursed by the crocodile conservation team at the village level. Since the start of the program, a total of 115 crocodiles have been successfully released back into the Xe Champhone wetlands. 6 to 8 nests are being found each year, and based on these nest counts,  an estimated population of 200-250 Siamese Crocodiles inhabit the Xe Champhone Wetlands. This conservation program is part of the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Lao PDR’ (ECILL) project funded by the European Union and the Agence Française de Développement and implemented by WCS. The program in the Xe Champhone Wetlands also supports local communities to assess, develop and promote livelihoods that also benefit biodiversity conservation. Dr. Santi Saypanya, Country Director of WCS Lao PDR Program added “By working together, the program has allowed to strengthen the capacity of both government stakeholders and communities in the conservation of critical native species of the Xe Champhone wetlands. This crocodile release event is the successful outcome of several years of partnership with all stakeholders to balance the sustainable livelihoods of communities with the goals of wildlife protection”. Through short plays and dance performances, this event was an opportunity to raise awareness and remind about the importance of crocodile and wildlife conservation among students living in the area. The Crocodile release event was attended by over 200 people from the government of Lao PDR at the national and subnational levels, WCS, teachers and students. jmauer@wcs.org Thu, 14 Mar 2024 01:42:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22229 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/22230/Lao-PDR-celebrates-World-Wildlife-Day-2024.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=22230 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22230&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/22230/Lao-PDR-celebrates-World-Wildlife-Day-2024.aspx World Wildlife Day was celebrated this year under the theme ‘Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation’ and brought together the Department of Forestry from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the European Union Delegation to Lao PDR, the Embassy of France to Lao PDR, Wildlife Conservation Society and conservation partners, the Working Group 15.7 on Combating Wildlife Crime and students at the National University of Laos in Vientiane. People around the world rely on wildlife and biodiversity-based resources to meet their needs - from food, to fuel, medicines, housing, and clothing. Nearly half of the world’s population is directly dependent on natural resources for their livelihoods, with 70% of the world’s poor living in rural areas and depending directly on biodiversity for their survival and well-being. To enjoy the benefits and the beauty that nature brings to humans and the planet, people have been working together to ensure ecosystems are able to thrive and plant and animal species are able to exist for generations to come. Lao PDR is recognized as a unique biodiversity hotspot and is home to some of the world’s biologically richest and most endangered terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and species. However, its exceptional biodiversity is declining due to climate change, illegal wildlife trade, hunting, and poaching coupled with high rates of deforestation causing fragmentation and loss of habitats. "As you may be aware that Lao PDR is a natural resource-rich country, both on land and in water. There are more than 1000 species of wild animals, especially the rare and endangered wild animals, such as Saola, Asian rock rats, Asian elephants, tigers, Eld’s deers, Irrawaddy Dolphin and other species. These wild animals are important for preserving the intactness of forest, the balance of the ecosystem, and are precious natural heritages of our nation, Lao PDR", said Associate Prof Dr Somvang Phimmavong, Director General of the Forestry Department.                                              This year’s World Wildlife Day focuses on digital innovations that are transforming the way we safeguard our invaluable ecosystems and biodiversity.  It is a global platform to explore sustainable solutions to address threats to wildlife. New tools such as SMART patrol, drones, GIS, and maps are helping conservationists to identify, locate and monitor wildlife and critical species in forests and protected areas and wetlands, thus making wildlife conservation easier, more accurate, and efficient. “In the Lao PDR, the Government is taking bold steps in the right direction, with the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2016 – 2025, the forest Law voted in 2019, the protected area decree adopted in June 2023, the Decree on wetlands, the CITES decree under revision, the protected area roadmap in the drafting process. Through enhanced protection of its ecosystems, Laos actively participates in the national and global biodiversity conservation”, said Mrs. Ina Marčiulionytė, EU Ambassador to Lao PDR. “We are very proud to fund the Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Lao PDR (ECILL) implemented by the Wildlife Conservation Society in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. This project, builds on field experience in Nam Et-Phou Louey, Nam Kading, Phou Si Thon Endangered Species Conservation Area, and Xe Champhone wetlands, to reflex and feed the policy development process, integrating field experience and lessons learnt”, added Mrs. Ina Marčiulionytė, EU Ambassador to Lao PDR. French Ambassador Siv-Leng Chhuor echoed the EU Ambassador by saying: “I place emphasis the Protected Areas Decree adopted in June 2023, an ambitious text and a bold step for biodiversity protection in Laos, which was draft with inputs from the ECILL project, co-financed by AFD and the European Union and which we hope will be operationalized in the coming months and years. Despite today's celebrations, we must remain vigilant in the face of threats to biodiversity and we encourage the Government of Lao PDR to pursue these efforts and continue now with the implementation of these legislations.” Through various panel discussions with conservation organizations and experts, the event aimed to raise awareness among students of various faculties and colleges about the latest applications of digital technologies in wildlife conservation and the impact of digital interventions on ecosystems and communities.  Exhibition booths by conservation partners and educational institutions showcased technological innovation, tools, and services to drive wildlife conservation and human-wildlife coexistence, and highlighted the contributions made to sustainability, wildlife and biodiversity conservation in Lao PDR. World Wildlife Day is celebrated every year on March 3rd to connect people with the natural world and inspire continued learning and action for animals and plants. The event was attended by over 250 people and was organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry with the support of the Working Group 15.7 on combating illegal wildlife trade and trafficking. jmauer@wcs.org Mon, 04 Mar 2024 02:02:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22230 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/22063/Government-stakeholders-and-the-Wildlife-Conservation-Society-promote-the-conservation-of-Lao-wetlands-on-World-Wetlands-Day.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=22063 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22063&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/22063/Government-stakeholders-and-the-Wildlife-Conservation-Society-promote-the-conservation-of-Lao-wetlands-on-World-Wetlands-Day.aspx The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE), the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) from the central, provincial and district level, and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in Lao PDR join together in the Xe Champhone Wetlands in Savannakhet province in celebration of World Wetlands Day.The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE), the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) from the central, provincial and district level, and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in Lao PDR join together in the Xe Champhone Wetlands in Savannakhet province in celebration of World Wetlands Day. Wetlands are considered among the most biologically diverse of all ecosystems, serving as home to a wide range of unique plant and animal species. They are critically important ecosystems that contribute to biodiversity, climate mitigation and adaptation, water quality improvement, and provide local communities with a source of livelihoods. The 2024 theme of “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing” aims to spotlight how all aspects of human well-being - physical, mental and environmental - are tied to the health of the world's wetlands. Despite their importance, wetlands are increasingly threatened by unsustainable fishing practices, fragmentation, and conversion through agricultural intensification. World Wetlands Day was celebrated in Champhone District, Savannakhet province with students from three secondary schools (Houayxay, Kengkok and Taleo) through outreach activities including quizzes and games to educate the youth about the value of wetlands for humanity and the planet. Mr Vongsavanh Viengmany, Governor of Champhone and Vice-Governors of Sonnabouly, Saibouly and Songkhone district, provincial counterparts, WCS Savannakhet team and students exchanged about the crucial role of wetlands for sustaining biodiversity, improving water quality and as a source of livelihoods. In conjunction with World Wetlands Day 2024, a wetlands decree dissemination seminar took place on 30 and 31 January 2024 in Keoudom District, Vientiane Province to disseminate the decree to relevant sectors, report on the progress of wetlands profile in Lao PDR and consult on the Wetland Strategy Concept Note. Chaired by Mr. Chanthanet Bualapha, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, the seminar gathered Deputy Heads of offices, Deputy Heads of Departments of line ministries as well as experts from related sectors including WCS. This Wetlands Decree acts as the reference for managing, monitoring, protecting, developing, and using the wetlands across the country to maintain a balanced ecosystem in line with the National Economic and Social Development Plan, Watershed Management Plan, Conventions and International Agreements that Lao PDR is a party to. Through the interventions in Xe Champhone, the EU/AFD ECILL project will directly address three of the five strategies identified in Laos’ National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) to meet the requirements of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), while also supporting Lao PDR’s commitment to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, through its diverse, integrated activities promoting wise-use of wetland resources and protection of wetland biodiversity and ecological functions. The integrated Landscape Management of the Xe Champhone Wetlands supports local communities to assess, develop and promote livelihoods that also benefit biodiversity conservation. The Xe Champhone Wetland located in Champhone District, Savannakhet Province represents the largest of Lao PDR’s two Ramsar sites (Wetland of International Importance) and is home to an abundance of aquatic biodiversity, as well as one of the world’s last remaining populations of the critically endangered Siamese crocodile, endangered turtle species, and wetland birds.  Through the Savannakhet Landscape Program funded by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and the European Union (EU) under the Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Lao PDR Project (ECILL), WCS is supporting local authorities, partners and communities to develop land and resource-use plans that improve local livelihoods and biodiversity conservation. “Through the community-led initiatives, the program provides a major contribution to the preservation of these critical national assets by allowing the communities in and around the wetlands to adapt their approaches to climate change”, said Mr Vongsavanh Viengmany, Governor of Champhone District. He also stressed the importance of educating the youth about the need to preserve and restore wetlands. “I am delighted to see the enthusiasm from the students to reflect and think about a sustainable future for their land.” Phacksouliya Phommatheth, WCS Savannakhet Program Coordinator added “we all have a role to play in the conservation of wetlands and we should continue working together for clean, productive wetlands that sustain wildlife and local communities. Improved planning and resource management is needed for the long-term benefits of both people and wildlife.” The World Wetlands Day event was attended by over 220 people from the government of Lao PDR at national and subnational levels, offices at provincial level: Agriculture and Forestry, Natural Resources and Environment, Education and Sports, Information, Culture and Tourism, Women’s Union, Lao Youth Union, Foreign Affairs, teachers and students. jmauer@wcs.org Mon, 05 Feb 2024 06:46:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22063 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/19309/Lao-PDR-adopts-the-Protected-Areas-new-decree-to-safeguard-and-restore-biodiversity.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=19309 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=19309&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/19309/Lao-PDR-adopts-the-Protected-Areas-new-decree-to-safeguard-and-restore-biodiversity.aspx After three years in the making, the Prime Minister, H.E. Mr. Sonexay Siphandone adopted the new decree on protected areas in Laos on 20 June 2023, marking a major milestone for better management and governance of these biodiversity-rich zones. The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) worked hand in hand with the Lao government, protected area practitioners and key stakeholders to strengthen this important national legislation, within the framework of the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape management in Lao PDR (ECILL) project’, financed by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and the European Union (EU). Manoly Sisavanh, Deputy Country Director of WCS Lao PDR, looks back on this success. What was the situation in Laos before the decree was passed? Manoly Sisavanh: Since declaring independence in 1975, Lao PDR has included forest protection and biodiversity conservation in its national development agenda. The first evidential actions were carried out in the 1980s through surveying the country's wildlife and their habitats with the support of development partners and NGOs. The first national conference on forestry in 1989 acknowledged that the alarming rate of deforestation in Laos posed serious negative impacts on biodiversity and natural habitats that could drive native species to extinction. So, in 1993 the government of Laos established the first set of 18 National Protected Areas (NPAs) including the Nam Et-Phou Louey and the Nam Kading areas, where the ECILL project provides technical and financial support. More NPAs were created from 1995 to date—making a total of 26 NPAs, of which six were declared ‘National Parks,’ a category of higher protection. To date, several laws have been added to the legal framework, most notable is the Forestry Law, under which the first Protected Area (PA) Decree No. 134 was issued in 2015 to regulate protected area management, protection, development, and use. Since 2016, the forestry sector has undergone progressive sectoral institutional and legal reforms. These include the adoption of the Prime Minister’s Order No. 15 (2016) on increased strictness for timber businesses, the Penal Code (2017) provisions on wildlife and forest-related criminal offenses and punishments, and the Prime Minister’s Order No. 05 (2018) on increased strictness for wildlife businesses in response to the CITES Article XIII compliance. In 2019, the National Green Growth Strategy to 2030 and the new Forestry Law were adopted, which set more comprehensive frameworks and directions for the development of the first Decree on CITES implementation (2022), this new Decree on Protected Areas (2023), and the upcoming revised Wildlife Law and the new Forestry Strategy to 2035. All these policies are set to fulfill Lao PDR’s international commitments under Multilateral Environmental Agreements and national goal to achieve 70% closed-canopy forest cover and to conserve 70% of its total land area as forest areas—comprising Conservation Forests (aka. Protected Areas), Protection Forests, and Production Forest Areas. What is the content of the new decree and how does it compare to the previous one? Manoly Sisavanh: WCS was entrusted by the Department of Forestry to provide technical and scientific advice into the decree designing and drafting process and the overall protected area reform in Lao PDR. In analyzing the shortcomings of the 2015 Decree and the challenges manifested in the field by practitioners, the decree drafting committee introduced six key principles into the new decree. First of all, Protected Areas (PAs) lacked recognition, especially by other sectors. This decree raises the standard, priority, and profile of PAs to align with national goals and meet international standards. The new decree clarifies the Levels of PAs (national, provincial, district and village), six Categories of PAs compatible with the IUCN standards, and the Zones within PAs (totally protected zone, controlled use zone and buffer zone), which allow better protection and control of the activities authorized in each. Secondly, the decree aims to balance benefits between people and nature by involving the inhabitants of the surrounding villages in co-management of the PAs through the ‘Guardian Village’ approach. This approach requires the Guardian Village Conservation Contract that promotes PA communities’ participation and empowers them to jointly make decisions with PA Authorities about resource use and allocation which serve conservation and development objectives. Third, the decree boosts the PA system governance and administration through a centralization approach at the level of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry for all National Protected Areas encompassing two or more provinces as well as for PAs of regional or international listing (i.e. UNESCO World Heritage, IUCN Green List, ASEAN Heritage Park). All National PAs situated within a jurisdiction of one province and Provincial PAs will be managed at the Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office level, and more flexible for District and Village PAs. Collaboration shall be promoted at central and sub-national levels with local administration offices and other sectors to harmonize and optimize PA land and natural resources use and allocation based on the ‘Integrated Landscape Management principles. Fourth, PA Management Office (PAMO) is formalized as a ‘technical budget unit’ with stamp, mandate, and authority. Guardian Villages will be established and anchored in PA governance and administration. Each PA Management Plan and staffing will be set to better balance community engagement (i.e., outreach, participatory land use planning, livelihoods development) and resource protection. PAMOs will have the option to formalize collaboration and partnership with public, private and non-profit partners. Fifth, the decree clarifies eligible PA use categories—for public, family, customary and business benefits—which entail rights and responsibilities of users. The decree also recognizes land tenure of the inhabitants living inside PAs before its designation through the land registration and land titles or land use certificates for authorized customary land uses inside PAs. Finally, this decree looks carefully into balancing conservation with development aiming at applying the ‘Mitigation Hierarchy’ for business use to avoid or mitigate negative investment impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services to achieve no net loss, or net gain. It also lays foundations towards innovative sustainable financing schemes to hopefully make PAs financially autonomous in the long-term. The options could include Payment for Ecosystem Services, Carbon Credits, nature-based tourism, Conservation Concession, Biodiversity Offsets, Debt-for-Nature Swab, and so more. Specific options for sustainable financing will be identified in the forthcoming ‘Roadmap for National Protected Area Management and Sustainable Financing’ to be developed by the Department of Forestry in partnership with WCS and relevant stakeholders under the ECILL. What are the next steps for the implementation of this decree? Manoly Sisavanh: Having supported the Department of Forestry throughout the decree development, WCS and all PA stakeholders (governments, development partners, private sector, NGOs/CSOs, academia and local communities) will have a crucial role in its dissemination and implementation. The next step to ensure proper implementation will be the preparation of the ‘Roadmap for National Protected Area Management and Sustainable Financing’, which will set out clear steps for the government to lead and PA stakeholders to support. The steps would include (i) preparing an action plan, (ii) establishing the roadmap formulating committee, (iii) preparing for the reorganization of PA Management Offices as part of PA network, (iv) and developing sustainable financing schemes from both public and private sources that are suitable for Lao PDR’s context. This decree is a big bold step for biodiversity protection in Lao PDR, and we are very proud to have been able to contribute to it within the framework of the AFD and EU-financed ECILL project. We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Lao government and all PA stakeholders to ensure its successful implementation. jmauer@wcs.org Wed, 21 Jun 2023 03:05:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:19309 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/19312/Approval-of-the-Xe-Champhone-Ramsar-Management-Plan-and-Field-Visit-to-Xe-Champhone-Ramsar-Wetlands.aspx#Comments 0 https://laos.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6007&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=19312 https://laos.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=19312&PortalID=118&TabID=6007 https://laos.wcs.org/About-Us/Latest-News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/19312/Approval-of-the-Xe-Champhone-Ramsar-Management-Plan-and-Field-Visit-to-Xe-Champhone-Ramsar-Wetlands.aspx On Monday April 10th, 2023, the Department of Water Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment held the meeting on Approval of the Xe Champhone Ramsar Management Plan under the co-chairmanship of Mr. Chanthaneth Boualapha, Vice Minister of Natural Resources and Environment and Mrs. Lingkham Sengtavanh, Vice Governor of Savannakhet Province with relevant participants from local level and INGOs including Provincial of Natural Resources and Environment; Provincial of Agriculture and Forestry; Provincial of Information, Culture and Tourism; Provincial of Education and Sport; District Governor, District of Agriculture and Forestry Office, District of Natural Resources and Environment Office from Champhone, Songkhone, Sonnabouly district; WCS; IUCN; and FAO to witness in the signing ceremony of the Xe Champhone Ramsar Management Plan at Savannakhet Province Governor’s Office.  Xe Champhone Wetlands, located in Savannakhet Province, is the largest of Lao PDR’s two Ramsar sites and contains core habitats of critically endangered Siamese Crocodile, freshwater turtles and tortoises, wetland birds, and other plant and aquatic species which led to the site being declared a “Wetland of International Importance” under the Ramsar Convention. Xe Champhone Ramsar Management Plan was developed with the aim of strengthening the understanding and mutual agreement between those involved in the wetland management,  to create an integrated framework for the management and development of the wetlands, and to improve the quality of community’s livelihood while ensuing the richness of the ecological system of wetlands in accordance with the national and local economic development plan and the Ramsar Convention.  During the meeting, the Department of Water Resources reported on the steps made to create the management plan, then presented the draft Xe Champhone Ramsar Management Plan and the draft decree on wetlands. Xe Champhone Ramsar boundary extension proposed plan was presented by WCS. Representatives from the relevant parties emphasized the importance of boundary marking being made priority and the need to raise public awareness to recognize the significance of Ramsar wetlands area. Key protection issues were also addressed including the delineation for control use zone versus total protect zone, monitoring the quality and quantity of water; detailed plan to improve community's livelihoods, with a special focus on land use plan in order to prevent encroachment in Xe Champhone Wetlands and the amount of water in the basin area of Xe Champhone Wetlands.  The following day, 11 April 2023, WCS staff from Savannakhet Landscape Program led a team from the Department of Water Resources, MONRE; PoNRE and DoNRE to visit the Xe Champhone Ramsar Wetlands and Siamese crocodile head-starting facility at Ban Tansoum, Champhone district. WCS’s Lao PDR Program together with Provincial of Agriculture and Forestry, Provincial of Natural resources and Environment, and local administration authorities, designed and implemented the Community-based Crocodile Recovery and Livelihood Improvement Project, whose goal is the recovery of the local Siamese crocodile population and restoration of associated wetlands, linked by socio-economic incentives that improve local livelihoods.   This project was made possible thorough funding by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the European Union (EU) Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Lao PDR "ECILL" Project.  The ECILL program is a partnership between Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the European Union (EU) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in joint efforts with the Lao government and local communities to protect the Lao PDR’s unique biodiversity and sustainable use of natural resources.  jmauer@wcs.org Wed, 12 Apr 2023 04:12:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:19312