Federation of Trade Unions Reaffirms Commitment to National Development

The Federation of Trade Unions under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism held its 9th Congress on July 22, 2025, reaffirming its commitment to advancing labor rights and national development through cultural, informational, and tourism sectors. The congress, chaired by Mr. Khamla Yoysaykham, President of the Executive Committee, welcomed the participation of Minister of Culture and Tourism Ms. Suansavanh Viyaket, as well as union members and departmental representatives. The event culminated in the election of a new Executive Committee, with Mr. Biew Sayavong elected as Chairman and Ms. Latdavan Duangdara appointed as Vice Chairwoman and Chair of the Inspection Committee. The newly formed 11-member committee reflects a balance of experience and fresh leadership.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Federation of Trade Unions has prioritized educating civil servants on Party resolutions and state laws, enhancing institutional understanding and loyalty.
  • Union members in media have improved public outreach through innovative TV, radio, and print content, contributing significantly to the development of the media and cultural sectors.
  • Cultural union members have worked to preserve and promote Lao heritage, reviving traditional values through engaging public programs.
  • Tourism union members played a key role in supporting sustainable tourism initiatives in line with national policies, including input on legal frameworks such as revisions to the Decree on Tourist Sites and Tourist Cities.
  • Minister Suansavanh Viyaket called for generational diversity and teamwork in the new Executive Committee, emphasizing the need for a well-structured five-year strategic plan (2026-2030) that promotes inclusivity and clear division of responsibilities.
  • The new Executive Committee has a balance of experience and fresh leadership, reflecting the Federation's commitment to strengthening the roles of culture, information, and tourism in national development.

Statistics:

  • 9th Congress of the Federation of Trade Unions attended by Minister of Culture and Tourism Ms. Suansavanh Viyaket and union members (Lao News Agency)
  • 5-year report presented by Vice President Mr. Khounsavat Sommanivong highlighting achievements in ideological education and civic engagement
  • 11-member new Executive Committee formed, with Mr. Biew Sayavong as Chairman and Ms. Latdavan Duangdara as Vice Chairwoman and Chair of the Inspection Committee
  • 2026-2030: Five-year strategic plan to be developed by the new Executive Committee for promoting inclusivity and clear division of responsibilities
  • Lao heritage preservation and promotion efforts undertaken by cultural union members, including public programs and traditional value revivals

Sources:

  • Lao News Agency
  • KPL (no date provided)