Laos Successfully Concludes Cluster Munitions Convention Review Conference, Adopting 'Vientiane Action Plan'

The Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) has successfully concluded its tenure as President of the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), wrapping up a five-day intensive session. Key outcomes adopted at the conference included: * The Review Document, which assesses the implementation of the Lausanne Action Plan 2022–2026 and the operational status of the Convention. * A Political Declaration, reaffirming the global commitment to eliminating these weapons. * The Vientiane Action Plan (VCAP) 2027–2031, serving as the strategic roadmap for the upcoming five-year review cycle. The VCAP 2027–2031 outlines 43 practical and coherent action lines. These measures emphasize strengthening domestic resource mobilization alongside predictable financing, utilizing evidence-based approaches, factoring in environmental and climate considerations, and integrating the direct participation of affected communities and survivors. Throughout the conference, delegates engaged in constructive discussions covering all principal pillars of the treaty, such as universalization, stockpile destruction, survey and clearance of contaminated land, risk education, and comprehensive victim assistance. A notable breakthrough was the signing of a declaration of commitment by the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to accede to the Convention, marking an important step forward for universal adherence. For the host nation, the legacy of unexploded ordnance (UXO) remains an urgent, generational challenge. Decades after past conflicts ended, rural communities across Laos continue to live with contamination that threatens daily safety, restricts local livelihoods, and hinders broader economic development. Consequently, UXO clearance, risk education, and survivor support remain core national priorities integrated into the country's treaty implementation. The Presidency emphasized that affected nations cannot face these burdens alone, stressing that sustained international solidarity, technical assistance, capacity-building, and predictable financial partnerships are vital to achieving long-term, tangible results on the ground. Furthermore, delegates underscored that the rights, needs, and lived experiences of survivors must remain at the center of all future action. International delegations widely commended the Lao PDR for its exemplary leadership and the warm hospitality extended by the people of Vientiane Capital and Luang Prabang. In addition to formal plenary sessions, participants and civil society partners co-hosted 18 thematic side events, nine of which were directly co-hosted by Laos. As the conference drew to a close, the Lao government reminded the international community that the ultimate success of the summit will be measured by effective, long-term implementation rather than words alone. The Lao PDR stands fully prepared to continue working alongside global partners to clear contaminated lands, eliminate stockpiles, and secure a safer future for affected populations worldwide.