As a French institute for international scientific research, IRD contributes to strengthening the resilience of societies in response to the challenges of global change. It operates in over 50 countries across Africa, Latin America, Asia, the Pacific, as well as in mainland France and the overseas territories.

 Its research activities address priority needs in practical ways: mitigating and adapting to climate change, combating poverty and inequality, preserving biodiversity, improving access to healthcare, and understanding social dynamics.

  Research projects are developed in collaboration with stakeholders on the field and local communities. Teams integrate different perspectives, disciplines, and knowledge through long-term partnerships to build robust, high-impact solutions.

   IRD advocates for research that benefits the broadest population possible. It openly shares research results and leverages science for action. In this way, it supports the transformation of societies towards more just and sustainable, social, economic, and ecological models.

  Institut Pasteur du Laos, created in 2007, is the result of a long term and joint decision between Lao Ministry of Health and Institut Pasteur Paris. It has a mandate from the Lao Ministry of Health to fulfill activities of public service such as research and diagnosis of emerging infectious diseases and vector borne diseases, training, education and capacity building, and technical assistance support for the investigation of epidemics.

 The international Joint Laboratory PRESTO brings together a multidisciplinary team of researchers specializing in virology, bacteriology, infectious diseases, veterinary medicine, public health, ecology, social sciences, and environmental science. It aims to:

    1. Rapidly identify emerging zoonoses through epidemiological, behavioral, and molecular research involving the environment, animals, and humans.

    2. Develop, validate, and evaluate new tools for disease prevention, diagnosis, and surveillance.

    3. Address knowledge gaps by acting as a hub for Southeast Asian researchers and students, fostering collaboration and the exchange of knowledge.