The Lahu National Development Organisation (LNDO) was set up by a group of leading Lahu democracy activists in Chiang Mai, Thailand in March 1997 to promote the welfare and well-being of the Lahu people, including the promotion of alternatives to growing opium.
The objectives of LNDO are:
- To promote democracy and human rights in Shan State, with particular attention paid to Lahu
- To promote increased understanding among the Lahu, Akha, Wa, En, Kachin, Palaung and Shan of human rights, democracy, federalism, community development and health issues
- To develop unity and cooperation among the Lahu and other highlanders from Shan State and to provide opportunities for development of civic leadership skills among local groups