Vientiane: Laos has officially kicked off its fifth population and housing census, which will be conducted from November 3 to December 28. This census is crucial for establishing a baseline for the country’s national socio-economic development plan and monitoring its progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the census will collect data on various aspects such as population size, structure, growth, and distribution, along with information on ethnicity, disability, housing, education, and access to services. This data will offer vital insights into living conditions among all ethnic groups in Laos and will be instrumental in shaping government policies and development strategies.

This year marks a significant advancement as it is the first time Laos is conducting a fully digital population census. This transition to a digital method follows four years of preparation and is expected to enhance data accuracy and accessibility, thereby strengthening the national statistical system.