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Laos

Children in Laos are severely affected by poverty and a lack of social support. Erikshjälpen is carrying out long-term work in the northern parts of the country to ensure that more children can attend school and grow up in safety.

Laos is a country facing many challenges. A lack of commitment on the part of the authorities has led to high rates of drug addiction in the country. This has had had serious consequences for many women and, in particular, for children. When children are forced to work, both in the home and to help support their families, they are at greater risk of dropping out of school and being married off at a young age.

This is what Erikshjälpen is focusing on in Laos

Erikshjälpen's work in Laos focuses on the northern parts of the country. The focus is on children's right to education, health, safety and protection.

This is what Erikshjälpen is contributing to in Laos

Erikshjälpen contributes to, among other things:

to ensure that children can continue attending school and pursue further education.
sustainable livelihoods that contribute to better health and better stewardship of nature.
the use of the local language in preschools.

Facts about Laos

Area: 236 ,800 km² (2025), about half the size of Sweden.

Capital: Vientiane

Population: approximately 7.9 million (2025)

Official language: Lao

Climate: Tropical monsoon climate. There are significant differences in elevation in Laos, which means that temperatures vary greatly depending on where in the country you are.

Nature: Laos is a landlocked country with mountainous, forested landscapes and fertile plains. One of Asia’s largest rivers, the Mekong River, flows along the border with Thailand.