The e-Policies and e-Strategies for Least Developed Countries of ASEAN initiative aims to strengthen national capacities for Least Developed Member countries of ASEAN in the formulation of national e-policies and -strategies for the application of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) for development through national participatory consultations and under South-South cooperation principles.

UNDP-APDIP is assisting the governments of Cambodia and Lao PDR with their respective ICT policy formulation processes.  In Cambodia, UNDP-APDIP has provided assistance and policy support to the National ICT Development Authority (NiDA).  In Lao PDR, UNDP-APDIP has provided assistance and policy support to the Science, Technology and Environment Agency (STEA).  Both of these government bodies are mandated by their respective national government to formulate the necessary ICT policies and strategies to foster and promote ICT for national development goals.

The policy formulation process in both countries has been based on a participatory approach.  NiDA and STEA coordinate the general effort in their respective countries while Steering Committees, Working Groups, and National Researchers have guided and provided analysis for policy recommendations.  The formulation process includes consultations at the national level as well as UNDP-APDIP supported ICT policy events at the regional level.