Social Protection System: A Case Study of Migration and Families Left Behind in Ban Sandin, Lao PDR

Abstract

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Declaration on Strengthening Social Protection, serves as a policy framework guiding the international agenda of ASEAN member countries. This emphasis on social protection within the regional bloc is aligned with the United Nation's global agenda, particularly, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This presentation analyzes the social protection system in the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), exploring traditional and innovative coping mechanisms and how they reflect community social dynamics. Drawing on case studies of families left behind and insights from fifteen additional informants in Ban Sandin, Lao PDR, this article synthesizes scholarly literature to explain the impact of migration on these families. The findings highlight existing gaps in the social protection system and policy implementation, especially in addressing needs of individuals and families left behind. The study also underscores the importance of gender equality in facilitating occupational support for returning migrants and enhancing disaster risk management. Therefore, social protection should be promoted as a national framework across ASEAN member countries and collaboration with the governments of Thailand and Lao PDR to extend social protection coverage. In addition, the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international organizations should be strengthened to promote sustainable community poverty alleviation practices. In designing social protection frameworks, the complex issue of migration should be considered in its positive and negative implications.