Communication, Dialogue and Leadership skills for government and non-government staff

Female staff members of MoHA, provincial and district offices (PoHA and DoHA) in Khammouane and Luangprabang and MAF together with representatives of 7 CSOs from different provinces in Laos, joined a 2-days' skills development measure in Vientiane Capital (from 7-8 August 2024). It was led by the Cabinet Office of the Ministry of Home Affairs and supported by the CEGGA II Programme.

Female staff still remain shyer about public speaking, less prominent and less verbal in discussions and policy dialogue compared to their male colleagues. The perceived glass-ceiling especially for higher positions continue to discourage thriving, younger women to take over leading responsibility. Mr. Tingthong Phetsavong, well-known gender expert, used a mix of tools and methods to facilitate the training. Participants are expected to enhance their leadership skills and possess tools and strategies to amplify their influence in advancing women leadership and gender mainstreaming across their responsibilities.

Ms. Kheuavanh Chanthaphouvong, Deputy Director General of Department of Public Administration Development, Ministry of Home Affairs highlighted ‘Achieving gender equality in society begins with self-transformation. We must strengthen ourselves to drive the change, gain acceptance within our organizations and communities, and become advocates for positive transformation. This involves self-awareness, clear goals and the courage to defend what’s right, openness to learning, and embracing diverse perspectives. 

The CEGGA Programme is a joint initiative of the Government of Lao PDR and its “Team Europe” partners, Switzerland, Germany and EU. It is the first flagship programme of Team Europe’s joint implementation approach in Laos in the spirit of working better together. Deutsche Gesellschaft fuer Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) has been tasked to implement the programme together with Lao partners to achieve the overall objective of increased citizens’ engagement in the national development process of Lao PDR, through the promotion of good governance, human rights, and the rule of law.