The Institut Pasteur du Laos was established to strengthen public health in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic through high-quality scientific research and applied public health expertise.

Research on infectious diseases provides essential evidence to guide public health decision-making. It supports answers to key operational questions such as vaccination coverage needs, the circulation of emerging viruses, and the presence of disease vectors in specific regions. This evidence base directly contributes to more effective prevention and response strategies.

Beyond its scientific role, IPL contributes to strengthening national capacity and autonomy in research, diagnostics, and epidemic investigation. Developing strong in-country expertise ensures that Lao PDR can progressively reduce reliance on external systems and reinforce its own public health resilience.

Infectious diseases are a regional challenge in Southeast Asia, a recognised hotspot for emerging and re-emerging pathogens. By strengthening national research and diagnostic capacity in a “One Health” approach, IPL contributes to reducing the risk of epidemic spread and improving regional preparedness.

IPL is governed by a Board of Directors composed of five members: three representatives appointed by the Lao Ministry of Health and two representatives appointed by Institut Pasteur in Paris.

Board meetings also include the participation of key institutional stakeholders as observers, reflecting IPL’s commitment to transparency, collaboration, and shared governance.

Current composition of the Board of Directors:

• H.E. Mrs. Baykham Khattiya, Minister of Health, Lao PDR (Chairwoman)
• H.E. Dr. Bounkong Syhavong, Former Minister of Health, Lao PDR
• A/Prof Manivanh Souphanthong, Former Dean, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR
• Dr. Odette Tomescu-Hatto, Executive Vice-President for International Affairs, Institut Pasteur Paris, France
• Prof Anavaj Sakuntabhai, Institut Pasteur / Institut Pasteur du Japon, France / Japan

The Scientific Advisory Board provides independent scientific guidance to IPL and supports the quality and strategic orientation of its research activities.

Current members:

• Prof. Anna-Bella Failloux, Institut Pasteur, France
• Prof. Olivier Lortholary, Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris, France
• Prof. Jean-Claude Manuguerra, Institut Pasteur, France
• Dr Pascal Ringwald, World Health Organization, Cambodia
• Prof. Anavaj Sakuntabhai, Institut Pasteur du Japon, Japan

• Established: 2007
• Start of operations: 2011
• Staff: 70
• Structure: 5 Laboratories, 1 Training centre, 1 Conference room