Women human rights defenders in Laos face systemic oppression, including arbitrary detention, retaliation, and severe restrictions on their rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and association. The United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) has repeatedly expressed concern over these issues. In its 2024 concluding observations, CEDAW highlighted undue restrictions on NGOs and women activists, urging the government to ensure that all women can freely exercise their rights in line with international law. A notable case is that of Houayheuang Xayabouly, known as Muay, an environmental activist who was arrested in 2019 after criticizing the government’s response to flooding via social media. The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention later determined her detention was arbitrary and violated international law. Despite her release in 2024, she remains under surveillance, with authorities pursuing new charges against her. These actions contribute to a climate of fear and self-censorship among women activists in Laos, undermining their ability to advocate for human rights and gender equality.
Pray for the immediate and unconditional release of all the arbitrarily detained women human rights defenders in Laos. Pray for their protection and freedom of speech and expression in the country (The Holy Bible, John 8:36).
Pray for the government of Laos to become open to criticism and opposition. Pray for lawmakers to ease the restrictions on civilians and allow them to exercise their rights and freedom in their homeland (The Holy Bible, Job 36:15).
News Source: Civicus Monitor
Image Source: Canva
