HANDICRAFTS AND LIVELIHOODS

Ethnic minority communities living in rural areas make up the poorest sector of the Lao population. Recognising the unique obligations of a museum working with these communities, TAEC runs an innovative livelihood development programme based on traditional handicraft skills. The overwhelming majority of handicraft producers in the programme (over 600!) are ethnic minority women, who studies have shown spend their income on their family’s food, health, and education needs.

In addition to the obvious benefits of extra income, the programme also fulfils TAEC’s broader mission of promoting interest, investment in ethnic minority cultures, and craft preservation. In gaining a monetary value, as well as their value as a symbol of identity and culture, traditional handicraft skills are revitalised and continue to be practiced.

Watch a brief video currently playing in the TAEC Boutique.