People with Disabilities in Salavan Province Laos, face stigma, exclusion, poverty, and lack of access to healthcare and services. This project will improve access to essential health care, increase income and community support, reaching over 300 PWD, caregivers, community health volunteers, and local leaders with accessible wash, mobile clinics, home gardens and peer support.

In Houaphanh cases are often mediated or “resolved” outside of the legal system. From MCC’s research more than eight out of ten cases are addressed by influential people outside of the justice system (e.g., Village, ethnic, and religious leaders). These leaders, just like VMC members, do not have a knowledge of the law, people’s rights and responsibilities, or how to effectively mediate a fair and just outcome to resolve the conflict. Until the trust is developed between villagers and the VMCs, these informal channels will continue to play a significant part in villagers’ access to justice, as such these informal players also need the same training and support as their formal counterparts.

This project will respond to the growing need for inclusive youth engagement in promoting peace, social cohesion, and conflict prevention in Lao PDR. Operating in one province (Sekong), the project will address youth marginalization, lack of life skills, and limited access to support services—especially for disadvantaged and diverse youth. It will provide training in peacebuilding, leadership, and vocational skills, along with mentorship and counseling. The project will directly impact over 300 youth and Laos Youth Union (LYU) staff, with indirect outreach to thousands more through cascading community activities.

30 Youth Volunteers will be selected in Sekong. The project will be implemented with two cohorts with 15 Youth Volunteers per cohort in Year 1 and Year 2. The YVs will be provided with Peacebuilding Training, Vocational Training, Business Management Training, and a small grant for their proposed business.

During the life of the project, a sustainable youth peace network will be activated at the local and national levels, promoting solidarity, inclusion, and resilience among Mittapab alumni.