Does Laos have freedom of religion?

The Constitution of Laos provides for freedom of religion; however, the Government restricted this right in practice. Some government officials committed abuses of citizens’ religious freedom.

What is the main religion of Laos?

Theravada Buddhism is the dominant religion of the ethnic or “lowland” Lao, who constitute 53.2 percent of the overall population. According to the LFNC and MOHA, the remainder of the population comprises at least 48 ethnic minority groups, most of which practice animism and ancestor worship.

Is Laos an atheist country?

Catholics and Protestants constitute approximately 2% of the population. Other minority religious groups include Baháʼí Faith, Islam, Mahayana Buddhism, and Confucianism. A very small number of citizens are atheist or agnostic.

Is Laos a religious country?

The predominant religion of Laos is Theravada Buddhism. Buddhism was the state religion of the prerepublic kingdom of Laos, and the organization of the community of monks and novices, the clergy (sangha), paralleled the political hierarchy. Buddhists—largely lowland Lao—account for about half the country’s people.

Is religion important in Laos?

Does Laos have freedom of speech?

According to Article 44 of the Laos’ 2003 constitution, Lao citizens are guaranteed “the right and freedom of speech”.

Who is the God of Laos?

Nagas are a cultural treasure in this Southeast Asian country. The head of a naga, a legendary half-man, half-serpent god, caps a temple in Thakhek, Laos. The water spirit is worshipped by religions including Buddhism and animism in this Southeast Asian country. It’s also a major motif in Lao weaving.

How are people treated in Laos?

They have also raised concerns in relation to disappeared civic activist Sombath Somphone, and jailed and tortured political and religious dissidents, military attacks on unarmed civilians, as well as the lack of freedom of expression, torture, poor prison conditions, restrictions on freedom of religions, protection of …

What is the problem in Laos?

Key areas of concern in Laos are freedom of speech, association, and assembly; enforced disappearances; abusive drug detention centers; and repression of minority religious groups.