Lao PDR takes key steps toward inclusive conservation with First National OECM Dialogue

The event co-organised by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and WWF with funding from GIZ on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), co-funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD) and implemented in the Framework of the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership – underscored Lao PDR’s commitment to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF) and its Target 3, which aims to effectively and equitably conserve at least 30% of the Earth by 2030. 

In his opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Thoumthone Vongvisouk, Deputy Director General of the Department of Forestry (DoF), The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, emphasised the importance of broadening conservation approaches beyond traditional protected areas. 

“We must recognise and support the conservation efforts led by communities, the private sector, and local institutions. OECMs offer a promising way forward to enhance ecological integrity while improving the livelihood conditions of our people,” he said.

Mr. Thevarack Phonekeo, Deputy Director General of the Department of Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, as the National Focal Point to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) for Lao PDR, reinforced the national commitment to biodiversity. “OECMs provide a unique opportunity to formalise and scale up the many local conservation initiatives that are already happening on the ground,” he said. 

Ms. Carolin Frisch, Project Coordinator of the GIZ Global Programme “GBF implementation” in Lao PDR, stressed the regional significance of this approach “The richness of biodiversity in Lao PDR, particularly in its community-managed landscapes, presents an opportunity to lead in inclusive conservation in Southeast Asia. Recognising OECMs is not just about numbers – it’s about capturing the true conservation story of the country.”

The workshop aimed to build a common understanding of the OECM concept, share experiences, identify potential OECM sites across diverse ecosystems, and define next steps for recognition and reporting in Lao PDR. Presentations highlighted case studies from forests, karst systems, wetlands, private concessions, and peri-urban areas.

The dialogue concluded with key recommendations to advance OECMs in Lao PDR:

• Establishment of a National Working Group and active Secretariat, co-chaired by IUCN and WWF, comprising representatives from key ministries (DoF, DoE, DWR and DoH, as well as NUOL) and expert institutions.

• Create theme-based sub-working groups focusing on forest/karst, wetlands/urban green spaces, and private sector sites.

• Develop national guidelines and criteria for OECM identification, informed by regional experience.

• Integrate OECMs into the next National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP 2026–2030).

• Identify and document at least five model case studies representing key ecosystems and governance types.

• Organise study visits and training tours for key stakeholders, especially those with limited conservation exposure.

• Develop a comprehensive Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting (MER) system to support recognition, national planning, and international reporting under the KM-GBF and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework.

Today’s dialogue reflects Lao PDR’s leadership in embracing nature-positive development pathways,” highlighted Dr. Khalid Pasha, IUCN Asia Regional Coordinator - Protected, Conserved and Heritage Areas. “Recognising and supporting OECMs can help the country not only meet its international biodiversity commitments, but also empower communities, enhance ecosystem services, and improve climate resilience,” he continued. 

Participants at the OECM national dialogue in Lao PDR © IUCN Lao PDR

This national dialogue represents a foundational step in integrating OECMs into Lao PDR’s conservation strategy. It sets the stage for a more inclusive and locally grounded approach to biodiversity protection that empowers communities, enhances ecosystem services, and supports national development and climate resilience goals.

IUCN plays a leading role in advancing KM-GBF Target 3 in Asia by supporting national dialogues on OECMs, offering technical guidance, tools, and capacity building. As APAP Secretariat and a CBD TSC Support Centre, IUCN helps align regional efforts with global biodiversity goals through collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Media Contact:
Lee Xiong, Head of Office, IUCN Lao PDR
Email: [email protected] | Tel: (+856) 21 417455