Freedom of the press in Laos
Open-knowledge reference entry
Laos has one of the most restrictive media environments in the world. In 2020, Reporters Without Borders ranked Laos 172 out of 179 on its annual Press Freedom Index, behind countries such as Cuba and Iran.
The Laotian government exerts almost total control over the press. Nearly all media organizations in Laos are government-owned and some Laotian journalists are party members attached to the government.
Regulations
According to Article 44 of the Laos’ 2003 constitution, Lao citizens are guaranteed "the right and freedom of speech".
However Article 23 of the constitution makes it clear that the state has ultimate authority over the press since it "attends to improving and expanding mass media activities for the purpose of national protection and development." It also says that "…mass media activities which are detrimental to national interests or the fine traditional culture and dignity of [the] Lao people are prohibited."
In addition, Article 65 of the 2005 Penal Law of Laos, says that any person circulating information or images "detrimental to the Lao People's Democratic Republic or are for the purpose of undermining or weakening State authority" may be fined and imprisoned for up to five years.
In July 2008, the Lao National Assembly approved a new press law, which included an article stating that media representatives have the right of access to government information. In practice, government officials often reply "no comment" when pressed for information or use delaying tactics, such as requiring reporters to submit official letters from their publication when seeking even routine statistics or comment.
Laos has one of the lowest levels of internet penetration in the world, with just 14 percent of the population using the internet in 2015. In 2014, the Lao government adopted an Internet law that it claimed would support the growth of the Internet.
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