Who we are

The Progressive Community Development Association (PCDA) is a civil society organization (CSO) committed to fostering a flourishing Lao society by empowering rural communities. Guided by the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), our participatory grassroots programs strengthen local capacity, respond to community priorities, and are rooted in indigenous cultural values and traditions. Through this approach, PCDA helps Lao communities to build resilience, achieve self-reliance, and promote holistic development that creates lasting change from within.

PCDA is the successor organisation of German-Lao Association for Development (GLAD), which was initiated from a shared commitment to sustainable development and intercultural collaboration. GLAD was founded by the Deutsch-Laotische Gesellschaft e.V. (DLG) in 2012. 

GLAD began its journey under the umbrella of DLG while maintaining full financial and organizational independence. Working with German partners, GLAD promoted meaningful transformation across Laos. Since 2018, GLAD’s presence was expanded by opening new branches in the southern region, enabling the team to stay closely connected to the projects and strengthen their impact. Building on this strong foundation, GLAD transitioned to PCDA in 2025 to further diversify partnerships internationally, broadening our network beyond Germany and fostering greater global collaboration in sustainable development.

PCDA | Vision

To contribute to a Lao society where cultural values thrive and sustainable prosperity is shared through inclusive, grassroots community development.

PCDA | Mission

To successfully implement rural development plans in collaboration with relevant stakeholders such as local communities, government authorities, and international organisations.

Values

Inclusivity and Respect for Diversity

Respect and value differences in language, culture, and gender, ensuring that all community members are included and represented.

Gender Equality

Promote equal opportunities and participation for women and men in all aspects of development.

Innovation and Technology

Encourage creative solutions and the use of digital technologies to address development needs in line with the digital era.

Collaborative Partnerships

Build strong partnerships with people, institutions, and organizations to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of development initiatives.

Empowerment and Resilience

Create conditions that foster responsibility and decision-making power within communities, enabling them to address challenges independently.

Goals and Objectives

Community Participation in Development

Encourage active community involvement in decision-making and development planning to ensure initiatives reflect local needs and priorities.

Poverty Reduction & Livelihood Development

Support communities in overcoming poverty by creating sustainable livelihoods and economic opportunities, while improving overall living standards.

Access to Quality Education

Promote inclusive access to quality education for all, fostering lifelong learning and skill development within communities.

Primary Health & Well-being

Enhance access to basic healthcare services, including sanitation, hygiene, clean water, and nutrition, to improve community health.

Environmental Protection & Sustainability

Promote environmental conservation and sustainable practices to ensure long-term community resilience and ecological balance.

Food Security & Agricultural Training

Improve food security through training in organic farming, crop cultivation, and livestock management, in line with national agricultural strategies.

Emergency Support

Provide immediate relief to victims of disasters and emergencies.

Address

Progressive Community Development Association

157/11 Xangkhou Village, Saythany District, Vientiane, Lao P.D.R

Contact

Phone: +856-20-59888476
Email: info@pcda-lao.org

© 2025 Progressive Community Development Association