By: Yassmeen El-Hariri
My name is Yassmeen El-Hariri, and I have just completed my placement as a Junior Professional Consultant (JPC) at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR). During my placement, I worked with the Inclusive Growth Unit and Economist Teams as a Research and Data Analysis Fellow, supporting the Country Office’s emerging livelihoods and private sector portfolio.
Prior to this role, I completed my Bachelor of Arts at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver in International Studies, concentrating in Security and Conflict with an extended minor in Economics. My academic background prepared me to contribute meaningfully to international development and inclusive growth. I was especially excited to work in Lao PDR, a country undergoing rapid economic and social transformation and approaching graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status at the end of 2026. Being on the ground at this pivotal moment—when development gains must be balanced with inclusion and sustainability—made it a uniquely compelling place to learn about development in practice.
From my first week, I was immersed in field-based work, including visits to enterprises supported under the Inclusive Value Chains Programme, UNDP Lao PDR’s flagship initiative for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). MSMEs account for approximately 99 percent of enterprises in Lao PDR, underscoring their central role in livelihoods and inclusive economic growth. Supporting their development is therefore essential to building resilience and expanding opportunity.
Throughout my placement, I observed all stages of the programme and supported the adaptation of global methodologies to the Lao context. I assisted in selecting participating businesses and built close working relationships with several owners. These interactions revealed that many enterprises are not simply income-generating activities but deeply personal and mission-driven endeavors. A significant number are women-owned, reflecting how women in Lao PDR are often concentrated in MSMEs and informal sectors, frequently starting businesses out of necessity. Despite systemic constraints, these entrepreneurs demonstrate remarkable resilience and innovation in sustaining livelihoods and strengthening their communities.
Many business owners pursue broader social goals alongside profit. Two beneficiary enterprises employ persons with disabilities, providing vocational training in traditional Lao handicrafts and enabling dignified work. Others focus on preserving and sharing traditional wellness knowledge in wider markets. For these entrepreneurs, business is both an economic activity and a vehicle to give back and protect cultural heritage.
These experiences strengthened my commitment to economic empowerment and inclusive growth. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity and the relationships I formed with business owners and colleagues. While this work can be demanding and at times challenging, it is also a profound privilege—because it allows us to learn from people’s lived experiences, witness their resilience firsthand, and build meaningful connections grounded in shared purpose and mutual respect.
