Socio-Economic Development

Lao Scholar Draws on History to Explore What Makes a Country ‘Great’

In many Lao communities, temples are among the cleanest places around. People sweep the grounds, tend to the gardens, and take care of the buildings. There is a shared understanding that these places are sacred, belong to everyone, and that caring for them is a collective responsibility. But why doesn't...

Laos Links South Korea Work Visas to Overstay Rates as Program Expands

Laos will suspend access to South Korea’s seasonal work program for 3 years if...

More Lao Citizens Live Abroad as Foreign Population Nearly Doubles

The number of foreign nationals living in Laos has nearly doubled over the past...

Laos’ Population Growth Slows as Birth Rates Fall, 2025 Census Finds

Laos’ population is growing more slowly, with birth rates falling and the population getting...

Laos Economy Grows 4.8 percent in Nine Months, but Inflation, Tourism Lag

Laos’ economy grew 4.8 percent in the first nine months of 2026, Prime Minister...

Laos Ranks Lowest in Global English Proficiency Test

The Education First English Proficiency Index (EF EPI) conducts the world's most expansive ranking of adults by their fluency in English. This year's index...

Deputy PM Wants Increased Focus on the Rights of Adolescent Girls

The Deputy Prime Minister called for relevant departments to increase their focus on advancing the rights of adolescent girls at a recent meeting. Deputy Prime...

Lao Children Raise their Voice for Climate Justice

From 6-18 November, world leaders have gathered in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, for the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference or COP27. This edition marks...

American Secret War Veteran Works Toward a Better Future for Laos

Col. Mike Burton makes his first visit back to Laos nearly 50 years after he was deployed to serve in the American Secret War,...

Government Expresses Concern Over Rapid Urban Development

The government has utilized international funding of around USD 300 million to support systematic urban planning and development for the last 15 years. Minister of...

UNFPA Provides Dignity Kits to Lao Youth Union For Emergency Response

Last week, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) handed over 486 sets of Dignity kits to the Lao Youth Union to prepare them for...