Across Laos and around the world, humanitarian action is strongest when communities are empowered to lead and when partners come together in solidarity. In times of crisis, children are often among the most vulnerable. Every child deserves to be safe, healthy, learning, and hopeful about their future, regardless of the challenges they face.
The theme of this year's World Humanitarian Day, "Strengthening Global Solidarity and Empowering Local Communities," reminds us that lasting impact begins with people working together.
At Save the Children Laos, we are committed to working alongside children, families, local authorities, and community partners to build resilience and create lasting change. Through preparedness, rapid response, and recovery efforts, we support communities to withstand and recover from emergencies while ensuring that children's rights and wellbeing remain at the center of humanitarian action.
In 2025, our humanitarian programmes reached 5,549 people, including 1,407 children, and supported 1,204 households affected by emergencies across Laos. From responding to floods and natural disasters to helping children return to school and supporting families as they rebuild their lives, we see every day how local leadership and community strength make recovery possible.
This work would not be possible without the dedication of our staff and partners on the front lines. Across the country, Save the Children team members work tirelessly to conduct rapid needs assessments, coordinate emergency responses, and ensure that assistance reaches children and families when they need it most. By working closely with communities, they help identify urgent priorities, amplify local voices, and support people in leading their own recovery and building resilience for the future.
Reflecting on his experiences, Sengathit, Project Manager shared:
The most inspiring part of our work is seeing communities come together during difficult times. Even after losing homes, livelihoods, or access to essential services, people continue to support one another and find ways to move forward. Being able to stand alongside them, listen to their needs, and help children and families recover gives real meaning to what we do.
Similarly, Viengsavanh, MEAL Manager reflected:
One of the most important parts of humanitarian response is Listening to communities from the very beginning is at the heart of effective humanitarian response. Through rapid needs assessments, we learn what matters most to children and families, enabling us to provide timely, relevant, and safe support. Seeing communities overcome challenges is truly inspiring, and it is rewarding to know that the evidence we collect helps ensure assistance reaches those who need it most while upholding their safety, dignity, and protection.
Today, we recognize humanitarian workers, volunteers, local leaders, and community champions whose dedication brings hope and support to children and families across Laos.
Together, we can strengthen solidarity, empower communities, and ensure no child is left behind.
