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...

Rising Bad Air Quality Levels Expose Waste Issues, World Bank Funds Major Reform

Air pollution in Laos is worsening, with PM2.5 levels across southern provinces now reaching concentrations that pose risks to public health, according to data...

Laos–North Korea Friendship Marked at Kim Jong Il Anniversary Event in Oudomxay

Officials in Oudomxay Province marked the 84th birth anniversary of Kim Jong Il on 9 February, highlighting longstanding ties between Laos and North Korea. The...

Six Killed in UXO Accidents During 2025 as Clearance Operations Continue

Unexploded ordnance (UXO) remains one of the top problems facing Laos, claiming six lives in 2025, according to officials, as clearance operations continue across...

Students Join That Luang Lake Cleanup as part of ‘Keep Lao Clean’ Campaign

Plastic waste at That Luang Lake has drawn renewed attention after primary school students joined a cleanup activity as part of a broader push...

Luang Prabang Limits Lunar New Year Decorations to Protect World Heritage Status

Luang Prabang authorities have approved limited Lunar New Year decorations from 15 to 22 February, imposing strict conditions to safeguard the city’s UNESCO World...

Champasak Welcomes Nearly 730,000 Tourists, Exceeds Annual Target

Champasak Province recorded positive tourism growth in 2025, welcoming nearly 730,000 visitors and reaching 207 percent of its annual target, according to provincial authorities. The...