The JuSTICE Project has launched the second phase of its collaboration with the International Union of Judicial Officers (UIHJ) to support the strengthening of enforcement practices in Lao PDR. Building on the achievements of the first phase, this new stage focuses on enhancing the capacity of enforcement officers, supporting the development of training tools, and providing a baseline on the strengthening of the Case Management System (CMS) for the enforcement of judgments.
From 17 to 26 March 2025, Mr Jos Uitdehaag and Ms Zlatislava Mihailoff, international experts from UIHJ, conducted the first mission under this second phase. During the mission, the experts held a series of consultations with key stakeholders, including the Department of Enforcement of Judgments (DEJ), the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), provincial enforcement offices, and representatives of the judiciary.
The mission focused on gathering data for a Training Needs Assessment (TNA) and a baseline study for the future CMS. Consultations explored the current capacities, challenges, and expectations of enforcement officers, while also providing support to the DEJ for the finalisation of the Guidelines on the Enforcement of Judgments. Meetings with enforcement offices and judicial authorities across different locations allowed for a comprehensive mapping of existing practices and identified areas for capacity development and technological improvements.
Following this first mission, the experts will prepare a Training Needs Assessment report, which will guide the design of a Train-the-Trainer (ToT) programme planned next May and curriculum enhancement for enforcement training at the NIJ. Work will also continue on the preparation of recommendations for the future CMS development.
The JuSTICE Project looks forward to pursuing this collaboration in the coming months to help strengthen enforcement practices and promote access to justice in Lao PDR.
