About Us
The Progressive Community Development Association (PCDA) is a civil society organization (CSO) committed to fostering a flourishing Lao society by empowering rural communities. Guided by the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), our participatory grassroots programs strengthen local capacity, respond to community priorities, and are rooted in indigenous cultural values and traditions. Through this approach, PCDA helps Lao communities build resilience, achieve self-reliance, and promote holistic development that creates lasting change from within.
PCDA’s predecessor, the German-Lao Association for Development (GLAD), was born from a shared commitment to sustainable development and intercultural collaboration. Initiated by the German Development Service (DED) and the Deutsch-Laotische Gesellschaft e.V. (DLG) in 2012, GLAD began its journey under the umbrella of DLG while maintaining full financial and organizational independence. Working with German partners, GLAD promoted meaningful transformation across Laos. Since 2018, GLAD’s presence was expanded by opening new branches in the southern region, enabling the team to stay closely connected to the projects and strengthen their impact. Building on this strong foundation, GLAD transitioned to PCDA in 2025 to further diversify partnerships internationally, broadening our network beyond Germany and fostering greater global collaboration in sustainable development.
PCDA’s Vision & Mission
Vision
To build a Lao society enriched with cultural values and sustainable prosperity, starting from inclusive, grassroots community development.
Mission
To successfully implement rural development plans in collaboration with relevant stakeholders such as local communities, government authorities and international partners.
Values
Inclusivity and Respect for Diversity
Respect and value differences in language, culture, and gender, ensuring that all community members are included and represented.
Gender
Equality
Encourage equal roles and opportunities for both women and men in all aspects of development.
Innovation
and Technology
Encourage creative solutions and the use of digital technologies to address development needs in line with the digital era.
Collaborative Partnerships
Close cooperation with people and institutions to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of development initiatives.
Empowerment and Resilience
Create conditions that foster responsibility and decision-making power within communities, enabling them to address challenges independently.
Goals and Objectives
Community Participation in Development
Encourage active community involvement in decision-making and development planning to ensure initiatives reflect local needs and priorities.
Poverty Reduction & Livelihood Development
Support communities in overcoming poverty by creating sustainable livelihoods and economic opportunities, while improving overall living standards.
Access to Quality Education
Promote inclusive access to quality education for all, fostering lifelong learning and skill development within communities.
Primary Health
& Well-being
Enhance access to basic healthcare services, including sanitation, hygiene, clean water, and nutrition, to improve community health.
Environmental Protection & Sustainability
Promote environmental conservation and sustainable practices to ensure long-term community resilience and ecological balance.
Food Security & Agricultural Training
Improve food security through training in organic farming, crop cultivation, and livestock management, in line with national agricultural strategies.
Emergency Support
Provide immediate relief to victims of disasters and emergencies.
© 2025 PCDA