Background and Overview of the Association
Association for Development of Women and Legal Education (ADWLE) was found in 2008 by fifteen CEDAW Resource Pool members who work with civil society organizations, INGOs and government and is a registered Lao NPA in 2010, established office in 2011. It was approved by Ministry of Home Affairs No. 799/HAdated 09/11/12.
Our primary target group consists of people at the village level specifically women and children affected by violence as well as village authorities.
ADWLE focuses on empowerment, legal literacy and raising awareness about women’s rights. We work with law students who are actively engaged in awareness-raising activities within universities, communities and law colleges. This involves integrating a gender perspective into project activities and the teaching of relevant legal subjects. Law students participating in the project have carried out activities to combat violence against women in Vientiane Capital and Champasak Province. As a group, these law students serve as a valuable resource in ensuring that women and children affected by violence within their communities receive assistance.
Our team possesses legal expertise that is applied to the association’s various initiatives, including: training on gender issues, women’s rights, and relevant laws; efforts to end violence against women; the protection of migrant workers and women from human trafficking; the integration of a gender perspective into legal education; the provision of legal counseling to disadvantaged women; and conducting research on issues concerning women.
Furthermore, the association recognizes the significant role of women in the context of climate change. Given the impacts of environmental and natural changes, as well as disease outbreaks, on gender roles across various dimensions, this content has been integrated into the activities of the SPMSK. The objective is to foster awareness within the community regarding adaptation for survival and the improvement of their quality of life.
Vision
A society where there is Gender equality, including equal opportunities, contributions to decision-making and access to legal system.
Mission
Conduct training on Gender, the elimination of Gender-Based Violence, CEDAW, the protection of migrant workers and victims of human trafficking, climate change, and disease outbreak response for legal professionals, educators, students and the community. Additionally, disseminate laws related to women to raise awareness and empower women to exercise their rights for their own development and to become leaders. Furthermore, integrate a gender perspective into teaching, daily life, and all sectors of work to foster gender equality and justice.
Values
ADWLE believes that promoting gender equality serves to shift the attitudes within Lao society and encourages men to show greater respect for women’s rights. Creating opportunities, learning, raising awareness, fostering solidarity, ensuring participation, maintaining transparency, and upholding equality.