Cross-Cutting Themes

The WWF is run at a local level by the following offices...

Zimbabwe

WWF-Laos integrates key cross-cutting themes across its conservation programmes to ensure inclusive, impactful, and sustainable outcomes.

The cross-cutting themes include gender equality, disability inclusion, public engagement – especially with youth – and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods and climate resilience.

We prioritize advocacy, behaviour change, policy engagement, and environmental education to raise awareness and drive lasting impact. Through strong partnerships, we promote good governance, transparency, and local ownership. An Environmental and Social Safeguards Framework (ESSF) is also applied to reduce risks and uphold accountability. By embedding these themes into every aspect of our work, WWF-Laos strives to build a future where both people and nature are empowered, included, and thrive together.

Gender Equality and Social Inclusion

At WWF, we recognize that promoting gender equality and social inclusion is essential to achieving lasting conservation impact. Guided by WWF’s Gender Policy, we are committed to a society where women, men, boys, girls, and gender minorities have equal access to rights, responsibilities, and opportunities in all areas of life. We treat gender equality as a fundamental human right and integrate this perspective across our policies, programmes, and institutional structures.

WWF understands that gender and social roles are shaped by cultural and social contexts – and that they evolve. Through our Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) approach, we work to remove barriers, amplify diverse voices, and create inclusive spaces in which all people can meaningfully participate in and benefit from conservation. From leadership roles to community actions, we aim to ensure equity, dignity, and shared responsibility for protecting our natural world

Environmental and Social Safeguards

WWF-Laos is committed to ensuring that our conservation work respects human rights, promotes equity, and supports sustainable development. Guided by WWF’s global Statements of Principles and Environmental and Social Safeguards Framework (ESSF), we apply nine safeguards to manage risks and strengthen our accountability – especially in on-the-ground work with communities and partners.

These safeguards help identify, prevent, and respond to potential environmental and social impacts, while upholding the rights of local people, promoting gender equality, and ensuring inclusive conservation. In Laos, we apply these tools across our landscapes to foster transparency, build trust, and ensure that conservation benefits people and nature alike.

PARTNERSHIPS

At WWF-Laos, we know that meaningful, lasting change is only possible through collaboration. Conservation challenges are complex and interconnected – no single organization can solve them alone. That’s why we work hand in hand with government agencies, civil society, communities, academic institutions, the private sector, and WWF offices across the global network.

Our partnerships are built on trust, shared goals, and the belief that by working together, we can create stronger, more inclusive solutions for people and nature. Whether co-managing projects or supporting national strategies, our partnerships play a vital role in scaling conservation impact across Laos and beyond.

Policy Advocacy and Public Engagement

At WWF-Laos, we believe that lasting conservation begins with people. Our advocacy and public engagement efforts aim to raise awareness, influence policy, and inspire behaviour change that supports a more sustainable future for Laos. We work closely with government, communities, youth, educators, media, and civil society to promote environmental values and drive collective action.

From national dialogues and policy recommendations to school campaigns and public events, our initiatives encourage people to understand, care about, and act for nature. By empowering local voices and promoting responsible choices – such as reducing plastic use or protecting endangered species – we help build a conservation movement that is inclusive, informed, and impactful.

Sustainable Livelihoods & Awareness

At WWF-Laos, we work to build stronger connections between people and nature through environmental awareness and livelihoods development. By raising understanding of environmental issues and promoting sustainable, nature-friendly income opportunities, we support communities to become active stewards of their environment.

Our approach includes education, outreach, and practical support for alternative livelihoods, such as sustainable agriculture, forest-based products, and traditional weaving. These efforts reduce pressure on natural resources while enhancing community well-being. In areas where people and nature are closely connected, this work is essential for long-term conservation and resilience.

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