EU Blood Donation Drives in Lao PDR

EU Blood Donation Drives in Lao PDR

EU and National Blood Institute Mark World Blood Donor Day with Blood Donation Drive Across Lao PDR

To mark World Blood Donor Day, the European Union (EU) and the National Blood Institute organised a series of blood donation events to support national efforts to address blood shortages in Lao PDR and strengthen preparedness during the dengue fever season.

The events were held on 11 June in Vientiane Capital and on 16 June in Savannakhet Province. A third event, organised in collaboration with the United Nations, took place on 12 June at the UN House in Vientiane.

The initiative comes at a critical time, as the rainy season typically brings an increase in dengue fever cases, leading to higher demand for blood and blood products. Through this campaign, the partners aimed to raise awareness of the importance of voluntary blood donation while helping to replenish national blood stocks and meet growing healthcare needs.

The events brought together government officials, development partners, civil servants, members of the diplomatic community, and the public in a collective effort to save lives and support patients in need of blood transfusions.

For the European Union, supporting these events is about more than public health. It is also an opportunity to strengthen ties between the people of Europe and Laos through a shared act of solidarity. By donating blood, European residents and visitors can make a meaningful contribution to local communities and help save lives.

Their support is particularly valuable as some blood types that are more common among Europeans are less readily available in Laos. By encouraging voluntary blood donation, the initiative promotes solidarity, community spirit, and stronger people-to-people connections between Europe and Laos.

The European Union remains committed to working closely with national institutions and development partners to support public health initiatives and improve the wellbeing of people across Lao PDR.