Culture

The Photographer Who Speaks for Laos’ Forests

In the forests of Laos, observation comes before words for Souksamlan “Toun” Laladeth. That idea inspired the title of his debut visual anthology, Where the Forests Have No Words, officially launched on 5 October in Vientiane*.* "People call me a conservation and nature photographer. But really, I'm just a simple person,...

Deported to Laos, US Returnees Find Their Way in an Unfamiliar Home

The men behind a barbecue grill in Vientiane speak English more easily than Lao. Some...

Khammouane Targets UNESCO Geopark Status to Boost Tourism

Khammouane is preparing a UNESCO bid for the Hinboun Geopark, hoping the international designation...

Vientiane Shuts Down KM38 Dharma Practice Center After Leader Defies Order Over Reborn Buddha Claim

On 24 September, Vientiane authorities shut down the KM38 Dharma Practice Center in Sangsai...

OP-ED: Cluster Bombs Still Threaten Lao Farmers Decades After War

By Eli Mechanic, Country Director for MAG Laos (Mines Advisory Group) In the early hours...

Ghost Festival 2026 in Xayabouly Set to Draw Crowds, 14 to 18 March

The annual Ghost Festival 2026 in Paklay district, Xayabouli Province, is set to be held from 14 to 18 March. The festival, commonly known as...

Beadwork Born in Laos’ Most Dangerous Fields, By the Women Who Clear Them

A jewelry collection made with women who clear bombs for a living is putting Laos' unexploded ordnance crisis back in the conversation. Beneath the soil...

Savannakhet Marks National Heritage Status for Ho Tay Pidok Library, Old Talaeo Temple

Officials in Savannakhey have recognized two historic landmarks in Champhone district as National Heritage sites, marking a key step in preserving the province’s religious...

Laos to Nominate Five Traditions, Three Sites for UNESCO Status

Laos is preparing to put some of its most beloved traditions and landscapes before the world, with the government announcing plans to seek UNESCO...

Japan Marks Emperor Naruhito’s 66th Birthday with Cultural Reception

The Embassy of Japan in Laos hosted a National Day reception on 26 February at the Ambassador’s residence in Vientiane Capital, marking the 66th...

Midwife from Remote Laos Village Bridges Gap in Maternal Health

UNFPA Laos - The road often disappears during the rainy season in Nongmek village, Paksong district, Champasak.  The first four kilometres remain unpaved. Heavy rain...