This report compiles socio-economic studies conducted between January and May 2018 to assess changes in the quality of life of communities living in the Nakai-Nam Theun National Protected Area (NPA) and its surrounding Peripheral Impact Zone (PIZ) in central Lao PDR. It provides an in-depth analysis of local farming systems, highlighting the gradual transition from traditional shifting cultivation to permanent lowland rice farming as a means of conserving forest resources and biodiversity. Findings from the Food Consumption Score (FCS) assessment confirm that the collection of non-timber forest products (NTFPs), hunting, and inland fisheries remain essential for maintaining nutrition and ensuring food security among local ethnic minority communities. While notable progress has been achieved in primary education enrollment and public health awareness, local infrastructure continues to deteriorate due to limited maintenance funding and the insufficient operational capacity of village management committees. Based on these findings, the expert team proposes integrated strategic directions under the LANN (Linking Agriculture, Natural Resource Management and Nutrition) framework to promote green finance, strengthen value chains, and support sustainable livelihoods for rural producers.
