Child Rights Risk Assessment and Guideline in the Forestry Sector in Laos

In 2018, The Centre for Child Rights and Business supported Mekong Timber Plantations in Laos in their aim to understand and address any existing or potential child rights risks in their business operations. To this end, The Centre conducted a child rights risk assessment, which entailed reviewing MTP's child rights policy; interviewing key staff; contractors and community personnel; and delivering training to MTP management and local communities impacted by MTP's operational activities. This assessment also paved the way towards the development of a child rights and child labour policy and a child rights management plan.

Between June and August 2018, The Centre delivered 12 training sessions to top management, plantation managers, contractors and village representatives to strengthen their knowledge of the newly updated policies and management plan. As part of the training, participants learned about responsible recruitment, rules related to children on worksites, safety on the worksite, and requirements for age verification documents. 

MTP is dedicated to addressing issues that contribute to challenges in the region, and thanks to these activities, is significantly reducing risks to its business while creating a work environment where children are protected and safeguarded. 

Photo: A workshop with village representatives where they were informed about the new child rights and child labour policy.