The Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE) is a charity organisation that provides treatment and rehabilitation programmes for Laotian people with physical disabilities. Many patients suffer injuries from hidden explosive scattered throughout the countryside as a result of the Vietnam War.
Unexploded weapons (UXO) that litter the countryside as a result of the Vietnam War has been and continues to injure and maim thousands of people in Laos. COPE funds the manufacturing of orthotic devices to help support parts of the body, as well as wheelchairs and tricycles. It also makes prosthetic legs, arms and hands for the unfortunate.
Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise - one of the highlights of 17 Best Things to Do in Vientiane (Read all about Vientiane here)
photo by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (CC BY 2.0) modified
COPE highlights and features
With a headquarters in Vientiane, COPE has 5 rehabilitation centres across 8 provinces in Laos, so that victims – mostly children – living in rural areas have access to this crucial healthcare centre. It provides and funds all the medical treatments and also travelling and accommodation costs for all patients.
You can learn more about COPE’s mission through various exhibitions and documentary films showcased in the centre. You can also see how prosthetic limbs are made at the onsite workshop. Check out the exhibit about the problem of UXO in Laos.
photo by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (CC BY 2.0) modified
The Karma Cafe is a good place to have a cup of Lao coffee and homemade ice cream during your visit to COPE. There’s also a gift shop, where you can buy shirts and postcards or simply make a donation to this worthwhile cause.
Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise
Location: Khouvieng Road, Vientiane, Laos
Open: Daily from 9am to 6pm
Phone: +856 21 241 972
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