The official launching meeting for the establishment of the Progressive Community Development Association (PCDA) was held on July 28, 2025, in Vientiane Capital. The meeting was chaired by M rs. Phetsalin Chanthaphasouk, President of the Progressive Community Development Association.

The meeting was attended by representatives from relevant government sectors, including the Central Organizing Committee of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, the Ministry of Education and Sports, the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Lao People’s Revolutionary Youth Union, as well as media representatives and association members.

Mrs. Phetsalin Chanthaphasouk emphasized that the establishment of the Progressive Community Development Association aims to serve as a civil society organization contributing to poverty reduction in rural communities, aligning with the policies and strategic directions of the Party and State.

The association aims to bridge the gap between rural and urban communities to promote equitable access to education, healthcare, and social services. Furthermore, it recognizes the critical need to support vulnerable groups, foster cross-sectoral collaboration, and enhance community ownership and solidarity.

Driven by a spirit of volunteerism, professional expertise, and accumulated experience, the Progressive Community Development Association is committed to advancing community support and development in line with national socio-economic plans.

Key target groups include women, children, persons with disabilities, the elderly, remote communities, ethnic groups, and underprivileged youth lacking employment and vocational opportunities.

Approval of Regulations and Executive Board
During the session, Decision No. 323/COCP, dated July 9, 2025, approving the convening of the association’s founding meeting, was delivered. Delegates subsequently reviewed and approved the draft charter, organizational structure, operational plan, and official meeting resolution.

The meeting officially endorsed the Executive Board as follows:

Mrs. Phetsalin Chanthaphasouk — President

Mr. Sengthong Soukhatamavong — Vice President

Mr. Chaleun Varinthanasak — Board Member

The meeting also appointed a 3-member Inspection Committee:

Mr. Thongvanh Bounbouathong — Head of Inspection Committee

Mr. Vilay Maneelath — Deputy Head of Inspection Committee

Mr. Khampaseuth Vongsakit — Committee Member

The establishment of the Progressive Community Development Association marks a key milestone in creating a collaborative platform to mobilize knowledge, experience, and volunteer spirit to empower marginalized groups and enhance access to development opportunities and public services.