Laos managed by the Communists is stuck in a political rut, but it has experienced a physical and economic transformation since Radio Free Asia was broadcast almost three decades ago.
RFA Lao covered the fate of dissidents and poor rural people, and the adoption by the country of hydroelectricity and other mega-projects which have brought new infrastructures to one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia, and with it an increasing national debt.
The FRG has also covered stories of human interest, including migrant workers who go to neighboring countries to make a living, and those who are vulnerable to traffickers and human beings.
Environmental destruction on the Mekong
RFA Lao reported on the rush to the head of one of the largest navigable waterways in Asia, the Mekong river, a decision discouraged by environmentalists and many Lao people who are negatively affected by such mega-projects. Among the most controversial, there is a major dam near the historic city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. RFA has reported the project since its creation and has obtained exclusive images of the dam construction site.
Scam in the golden triangle
Before the explosion of cyber-species in Southeast Asia drew wide attention from the public, RFA Lao reported how young women were trafficked in the special golden triangle economic zone on the banks of the Mekong in the province of Bokeo. When women failed to meet call center quotas, they told RFA how they were forced to sell their bodies for sex. Some have asked for help to alert the authorities so that they can escape. The zes managed by the magnate sanctioned in the United States Zhao Wei appeared beyond control of the Lao government.
Substitution maternity
Many young Lao turns to neighboring countries to make a living. This generally means migratory work – generally going to Thailand to find work in construction or hospitality. But other opportunities can bypass the law. RFA Lao interviewed a Lao woman who had acted as a birth replacement for a Chinese couple on the Lao-China border, offering a rare overview of an illegal industry that continues to prosper.
Where is Sombath Somphone?
The 2012 disappearance of the activist of civil society Sombath Somphone was the case of the most sustainable human rights against the Communist government in Laos. RFA Lao has reportedly reported on the apparently appearance of Sombath after being arrested at a police checkpoint on a Vientiane street, and his wife’s subsequent calls, supporters and foreign governments over the years for more information on what has happened to him.
Young migrant workers return home
The possibilities of employment are rare inside Laos, and many migrate to find work. Migration reverses when the workers in Lao return home from Thailand every April to celebrate Pii May, New Year Lao. It’s a moment for family meetings, temple visits and festive water celebrations. RFA Lao reported how workers mark this special return after months – even years – outside.
Xe Pian Xe Namnoy Dam collapse
The collapse of a power dam for the Xe Pian Xe Namnoy hydroelectric project was the worst disaster suffered by Laos while it accelerates its thrust to become the battery of Southeast Asia. The night disaster of July 24, 2018 won dozens of lives in the south of the province of Attapeu and caused the movement of thousands of others. RFA Lao followed the fate of the move in the following years when they were fighting for appropriate compensation and a new place to live in front of official corruption.
Edited by RFA staff.