UN Human Rights Council 63rd Session | IPLSA Submits Written Report on Field Visit to Laos

Our IPLSA delegation visited the Lao People's Democratic Republic in July 2026, expanding cross-jurisdictional public interest legal services, while conducting field observations on the development of the local legal system and the China-Laos railway project, and submitting a written statement to the UN Human Rights Council.

Key highlights of the report:

• Significant progress in legal infrastructure
  The number of practicing lawyers in Laos has grown nearly fourfold in ten years, from about 188 in 2016 (most not practicing) to 682 practicing lawyers nationwide in 2026. The Lao Bar Association launched the "2025-2035 Vision and Strategic Plan," focusing on legal infrastructure, lawyer capacity building, and promoting gender equality in the legal profession. UNDP projects also assist in establishing continuing legal education systems and developing pro bono legal service networks.
• Gender equality and women's empowerment
  The Lao authorities have clearly expressed their determination to nurture young and female legal talent, and have translated this into concrete policies. The Bar Association has made gender equality a core objective, supporting female lawyers to take on leadership roles. UN projects also assist the Supreme Court of Laos in promoting leadership development for female judicial personnel. The Lao Bar Association also looks forward to more cooperation with legal institutions and civil society organizations from Hong Kong, China.
• Realization of the right to development: Infrastructure and rule of law go hand in hand
  The China-Laos railway has improved Laos' external connectivity, helping the country break its geographical isolation. At the same time, the legal system is being upgraded simultaneously, strengthening the rule of law and enhancing the capacity of the legal system to respond to development needs.

The report also notes that Laos still faces many challenges, but the direction of reform is clear and deserves continued international attention and support.