Laos Urged To Act On Rights Abuses And Disappearances

Laos has accepted 189 out of 257 human rights recommendations during its recent review, including one to ratify the Convention against Enforced Disappearances. However, it still has not taken this step, despite making similar promises in the past. Rights groups are deeply concerned that Laos rejected calls to properly investigate cases like that of Sombath [...]

Deadly Free Shots: Methanol Poisoning In Laos

In Vang Vieng, Laos, hosts often offered free shots, “happy hours,” and beer buckets to attract young backpackers. These drinks, cheap and sometimes homemade, are part of the town’s wild party culture. These free or very cheap drinks might be mixed with dangerous substances like methanol, a toxic industrial alcohol that can cause vomiting, vision [...]

Vientiane’s Flooding Prompts Nature-Based Response

The Lao capital, Vientiane, is experiencing more serious flooding as climate change intensifies the monsoon rains. Storms such as Tropical Storm Wipha in recent weeks have overwhelmed old-fashioned drainage systems in the city, overwhelming big sections of the city and paralyzing daily life. People are regularly isolated from schools, hospitals, and workplaces, with poorer communities [...]

Youth In Laos: Overcoming Early Marriage And Leading Change

Young people in Laos are trying their best to make their communities better, but they still have numerous challenges. Early marriage is a major issue; nearly one in every five girls marries before the age of 18. It usually puts an end to their education and risks early pregnancy, poor health, and poverty. Most girls [...]

Lao Government Boosts Flood Relief And Recovery Efforts

Lao authorities are helping people affected by recent floods in many provinces. On 3 August, Vice President Pany Yathotou visited a flooded village in Xieng Khouang Province, where 34 houses were damaged and one person died. She gave supplies and urged local leaders to repair roads, homes, and schools, and move people living near rivers [...]

Storm Wipha Triggers Flooding In Laos

Days of heavy rain and Storm Wipha have caused flash floods and rising rivers in many provinces of Laos, including Luang Prabang, Huaphan, Xiengkhouang, Xayabouly, Khammuan, and Vientiane. In Luang Prabang, Xiengngeun, Nan, and Pakxaeng districts are badly hit. Eighteen villages in Xiengngeun are flooded, and emergency teams are assisting people in relocating to safe [...]

Long Tieng: A Village Surrounded by Bombs

Long Tieng, a quiet village in central Laos, was once a secret U.S. military base during the Cold War. From 1960 to 1975, the CIA operated there with Hmong fighters and secret pilots to fight communist forces. The village’s airstrip, once one of the world’s busiest, is now used by children and farmers. Visitors can [...]

Poverty Challenges Persist In Laos Despite Progress

Poverty in Laos remains a serious issue in 2025, even though some progress has been made. About 17% of families still live below the poverty line, struggling to meet basic needs. High prices for food, medicine, and everyday essentials make life more difficult, especially for people in rural areas. Many families try to cope by [...]

Tackling Gender Inequality In Laos

Gender inequality is still a big issue in Laos. Many women and girls face challenges in education, work, and leadership. Fewer girls complete their education, and women often earn less money than men and are more likely to work in low-paid or informal jobs. While women make up nearly one-third of parliament, only about 22% [...]

Laos Faces Criticism Over Ongoing Human Rights Failures

The United Nations reviewed Laos’ human rights record and found little improvement since five years ago. Laos received 271 recommendations from other countries, mostly repeating past concerns. Countries urged Laos to investigate attacks and disappearances of critics, protect freedoms like speech and assembly, and follow international human rights rules. Despite this, the government continues to [...]

Window International Network (WIN)

Window International Network (WIN)

Window International Network (WIN)
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