In Lao PDR, Sector Working Groups (SWGs) are the key coordination platforms for each thematic area of development in Lao PDR’s Round Table Process, to inform and guide socio-economic development in the country. They are led by the Government and include development partners, civil society organisations and representatives from the private sector.
The groups serve as discussion forums, aim to build consensus on development priorities, and make development cooperation more effective.
At the recent 16th Health Sector Working Group Meeting in Vientiane, on the 7th November 2024, WHO Representative Tim Armstrong delivered the following remarks:
I am very pleased to join today’s meeting as the co-chair of the Health Sector Working Group.
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We have seen that Lao PDR make impressive achievements in advancing the health agenda. This year, particularly, with the government’s leadership in ASEAN and other regional platforms, the country has demonstrated its strong potential for future development and leadership in the region.
Critical to this progress has been the support of development partners – who I acknowledge for their presence and support here today.
While highlighting achievements is essential, so too is zeroing in on how best to close remaining gaps. Particularly in the context of graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2026, our discussion today will be critical in shaping the health sector’s priorities – specifically donor transition in health, and the development of the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan.
Human capital development lays at the heart of LDC graduation – and beyond, to achieving the socioeconomic development we all wish to see in Lao PDR.
However, with LDC graduation and ongoing development partners’ transition plans in health, partner support is expected to decrease in the coming years. Though the government has recognized the importance of human capital development, the allocated budget for health, education and social protection is still very limited. Now, we face a challenging question: with limited resources, what key focus areas will allow us to effectively achieve our health targets?
For our discussion today, I want to highlight three points:
Firstly, increasing the government’s investment in health. The Ministry of Health launched the Law on Health this year, which reaffirms the government’s commitment to allocate at least 9% of its budget to the health sector. Enforcement of the law will be essential.
Underpinning this is the first vital reform for macroeconomic stability recommended by the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, who suggest “cutting costly tax exemptions to raise public revenue and protect social spending.” It will be crucial for the government to take bold decisions to address tobacco tax including the Investment License Agreement and other health taxes. This will make a substantial contribution to government revenue generation, improve health outcomes and save lives.
Secondly, identifying a clear set of priorities with clearly mapped partner support. 2025 is the last year of the 9th Health Sector Development Plan – in progress while the 10th plan is developed. We must agree on a clear set of priorities. This is no easy task given the many competing issues, but is essential given limited resources. The next question will be how to map partner support against the priorities and gaps.
Thirdly and finally, improving efficiency and accountability. Efficiency will drive all of us to avoid duplicated support and identify areas for enhanced collaboration – and I can confirm that the World Health Organization is going to increase its efforts to support coordination. Joint accountability – for all of us – is another requirement. The government and all development partners should share accountability for strategic planning, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation in the government’s annual work plan and loans or grants.
The task ahead is significant, but I remind you of this:
- We have seen maternal mortality rates drop by 80% since 2020 with the reintroduction of midwifery services.
- This year, we achieved 95% measles-rubella vaccination coverage, even as global rates declined.
- One disease, lymphatic filariasis, was eliminated last year, and progress towards others is on-track.
Audacious goals can be achieved – with commitment, collaboration and investment.
I hope that today’s meeting provides the opportunity necessary for an open-minded dialogue on all critical issues in the health sector, and a pathway to address current and future health challenges.
We are all part of Lao PDR’s journey in achieving health for all – together. I am confident we can rise to the occasion.