Laos’s political history prior to the 20th century is characterized by colonial domination by its much larger and more powerful neighbors, including Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, China, and Japan, all of which left their marks on Laotian culture. In the late 19th century, the country came under French rule. After gaining independence in 1953, Laos initially endeavored to maintain neutrality during the Vietnam War. However, the Laotian Civil War between the Communist Pathet Lao and the Royal Lao Government pulled the country into the broader conflict, as the Laotian communists aligned with North Vietnam and the Laotian government with South Vietnam. The CIA-led “Secret War,” which sought to clandestinely disrupt the communist supply lines between Laos and Vietnam, rendered Laos the most-bombed country per capita in history. In 1975, the Pathet Lao ousted the government; Laos remains officially communist to this day, and opposition parties are banned.

Human rights violations are widespread in Laos, and these include enforced disappearances and severe restrictions on freedom of expression and of the press. Pro-democracy activists and government critics are regularly arrested and detained. Persecution and discrimination of ethnic minorities, which comprise roughly 45 per cent of the population, remains widespread. The Hmong in particular face discrimination as a result of their previous alliance with the CIA during the Secret War. While the county has made significant progress on women’s rights and representation, advocates have identified the need to close the gap between boys and girls in education and skills training. Reflecting Laos’s previous divided status, a major subject in recent years has been decentralization, as discussions regarding the administrative powers of the central government vis-à-vis the provinces have continued. Environmental concerns, especially regarding deforestation, have grown as a result of the rapid economic development, and unexploded landmines and bombs continue to kill or maim about fifty Laotians per year. Corruption, too, remains a serious issue and a hindrance to the government’s plans of continued economic development.

Looking ahead, it will be important to watch Laos’s close relations with China and Vietnam, especially its increasing reliance on China for development projects. Also important to monitor will be the pro-democracy movement, which is hampered by divisions between those who want a return to the monarchy and those who prefer liberal democracy, and the government’s anti-corruption campaigns. Further openings could be possible as economic troubles spurred by a  high national debt and the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic promote rising public discontent in the Southeast Asian nation.

Last Updated: June 2024