Recently, a Laotian political refugee was seriously injured in Pau, France, where he has been living for three years after receiving threats for exposing corruption and the government’s role  in the tragedy of the collapse of a dam. His is not an isolated case, some NGOs report. For their part, French authorities believe the attack was most likely politically motivated.

Thailand has downplayed the incident, while Cambodia has not yet issued a statement. No one was killed or wounded during the 10-minute exchange. Quick action by the military of the two countries avoided escalation. The incident stems from unresolved border disputes, which also concern Laos.

The National Assembly of Laos has completed its examination of the new draft constitution, which aims to strengthen local administrations, promote a self-sufficient economy, and strengthen the role of the People’s Prosecution Office in legal proceedings. Among the novelties, there is also the explicit recognition of the Laotian diaspora as an integral part of the nation.

Southeast Asia expert  Bridget Welsh analyses Kuala Lumpur's first steps at the helm of the bloc: the leadership will be successful if it puts ‘the interests of those who live in the region above those of its leaders’. ‘Calling for “inclusive elections” in Myanmar contradicts the real situation on the ground’.

Provincial authorities in Bolikhamxay are sounding the alarm as drug trafficking and possession cases rise in the past six months. A methamphetamine tablet costs less than 25 cents US in the region.

Special Envoy Alexandra Xanthaki warned at the end of a ten-day visit to a country where together minority ethnic groups make up 47% of the population. ‘Despite progress on human rights, policies of assimilation of indigenous peoples into the dominant Lao group and forced relocation of villages in the name of development continue'.