Constitution of Laos

Article 1 The Lao People’s Democratic Republic is an independent country with sovereignty over its entire territory, including land, water, and airspace. It is a unified country of all ethnic groups that cannot be separated.

Article 2 The state of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic is the people’s democratic state. All power belongs to the people, is exercised by the people, and serves the interests of the people. The principal social classes comprising the people are workers, farmers, and intellectuals.

Article 3 The right of national sovereignty of the Lao multi-ethnic people is exercised and guaranteed through the operation of the political system, with the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party as its leading core.

Article 4 The people establish representative organizations to exercise their rights and interests. These are the National Assembly and the local people’s assemblies. The election of members of the National Assembly and members of local People’s Assemblies shall be conducted based on the principles of universal, equal, and direct suffrage by secret ballot. 2 Voters have the right to recall their representatives if it is deemed that they have acted dishonorably or lost the trust of the people.

Article 5 The National Assembly, local People’s Assemblies, and all state organizations are established and operate on the principle of democratic centralism.

Article 6 The state protects the inviolable rights to freedom and democracy of the people. All state organizations and officials must promote, disseminate, and educate the public about the state’s policies, laws, and regulations, ensuring widespread awareness and strict enforcement to guarantee the rights and legitimate interests of the people. All acts of violating human rights, threats, or actions that harm the dignity, body, life, mind, or property of the people are strictly prohibited.

Article 7 (Amended) Mass organizations such as the Lao Front for National Construction, Lao Veterans’ Federation, Lao Federation of Trade Unions, Lao Women’s Union, Lao People’s Revolutionary Youth Union, and other social organizations are centers for education, solidarity, and mobilization of people of all ethnicities to participate in the defense and development of the nation, enhance the people’s sovereignty, and protect the rights and legitimate interests of their members. They have the right and duty to monitor the activities of the National Assembly, local People’s Assemblies, and their members.

Article 8 The state implements a policy of unity and equality among all ethnic groups. All ethnic groups have the right to preserve, promote, and develop their fine traditions, customs, and cultures as well as those of the nation. All forms of ethnic discrimination and division are strictly prohibited. The state takes all necessary measures to advance and enhance the economic and social standards of all ethnic groups.

Article 9 (Amended) The state respects and protects lawful religious activities of Buddhists and other religious believers. It encourages monks, novices, clergy, and religious teachers to participate in activities beneficial to the nation and the people. All actions that cause religious division or disrupt national unity are strictly prohibited.

Article 10 (Amended) The state governs and manages society through the Constitution and laws. 3 All organizations, whether of the Party, the State, the Lao Front for National Construction, the Lao Veterans’ Federation, mass organizations, social organizations, and every citizen, must respect and strictly comply with the Constitution and laws.

Article 11 (New) The entire territory of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic is sacred and inviolable. Any actions that threaten national independence, unity, sovereignty, or territorial integrity, or that obstruct national defense and development, shall be severely punished.

Article 12 The Lao People’s Democratic Republic conducts its foreign policy based on peace, independence, friendship, and cooperation. It seeks to expand relations and cooperation with all countries based on principles of peaceful coexistence, mutual respect for independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, non-interference in internal affairs, equality, and mutual benefit. The Lao PDR supports the struggles of peoples around the world for peace, national independence, democracy, and social progress. Chapter II Economic and Social System

Article 13 (Amended) The national economy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic is a socialist-oriented market economy, comprising multiple economic sectors and various forms of ownership, maintained over the long term. It operates on the principles of equality, competition, and cooperation under the law, based on economic self-reliance, the promotion of a knowledge-based economy, and integration with regional and global economies. This ensures that the national economy expands sustainably and equitably, is aligned with social development, and is environmentally friendly, following a green and sustainable development model, to improve the material and spiritual living standards of the people.

Article 14 (Amended) The state promotes investment by all domestic economic sectors in the development of production, commerce, services, and the application of science, technology, innovation, and intellectual property. This contributes to the modernization and industrialization of the country and strengthens the national economy. 4

Article 15 (Amended) The state promotes foreign investment in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and creates favorable conditions for the transfer of capital, advanced and environmentally friendly technology, innovation, intellectual property, and modern management systems into production, commerce, and services. Assets and legally acquired capital of investors in the Lao PDR shall not be nationalized, confiscated, or transferred to state ownership.

Article 16 The state protects and promotes all forms of property ownership, including state, collective, private, domestic and foreign investments, within the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Article 17 The state guarantees property rights, including ownership, use, benefit, and disposal rights, as well as inheritance rights of individuals, legal entities, and organizations in accordance with the law. Land, minerals, water, air, forests, wild flora and fauna, aquatic animals, and other natural resources are the collective property of the national community, which the state represents and centrally manages as a unified whole throughout the country under the law.

Article 18 The state manages the economy according to a regulated market mechanism, enhancing the macro-management role of central authorities, and implements the principle of centralized, unified management coordinated with delegated responsibilities to local levels, in line with the law.

Article 19 (Amended) The state promotes the protection and restoration of natural resources and damaged environments, and works toward environmental sustainability. All organizations and citizens have a duty to protect, conserve biodiversity and the environment, and to use natural resources sustainably.

Article 20 The Lao People’s Democratic Republic pursues an open economic cooperation policy with foreign countries, adopting diversified, multilateral, and multi-form economic relations based on the principles of mutual respect for independence and sovereignty, equality, and mutual benefit.

Article 21 (Amended) 5 The state prioritizes economic development in close integration with cultural, social, and environmental development according to the principles of green and sustainable growth, with a strong emphasis on the development of human resources.

Article 22 The state places great importance on implementing a national education policy to develop Lao citizens into good, ethical, knowledgeable, capable, and professional people. The state and society strive to improve the quality of national education, creating opportunities and conditions for universal access to education, especially for people in remote areas, ethnic groups, women, children, the underprivileged, and persons with disabilities. The state encourages and promotes private sector investment in national education in accordance with the law.

Article 23 (Amended) The state promotes the preservation, protection, and expansion of cultural heritage that reflects the identity and noble values of the nation and its ethnic groups, while integrating selected outstanding aspects of the world’s cultures. It promotes cultural activities, arts, literature, creative works, and the protection of cultural, historical, and natural heritage, including restoration and conservation of antiquities and sacred sites. The state gives attention to the development and expansion of mass media to serve the mission of national protection and development. All cultural activities or media use that harm national interests, traditional customs, cultural values, or the dignity of the Lao people are strictly prohibited.

Article 24 (Amended) The state is committed to promoting intellectual development and creativity in research, analysis, and the application of science, technology, innovation, and intellectual property. It protects intellectual property rights, supports scientific advancement, and works to develop scientific personnel to support industrialization and modernization.

Article 25 The state is dedicated to improving and expanding public health services to protect and promote the people’s health. The state and society strive to establish and improve systems for disease prevention and medical care that are accessible, of high quality, and create conditions where all people, especially women, children, the poor, and those in remote areas, receive proper healthcare. 6 The state encourages and supports private investment in advanced and modern healthcare services. All healthcare services that violate the law are strictly prohibited.

Article 26 The state and society prioritize the promotion and investment in mass sports and physical exercise, including both traditional sports of various ethnic groups and international sports, with the aim of raising the level of athletic performance, strengthening physical fitness and health of the people.

Article 27 The state and society are committed to the development of the labor force; they promote work discipline, support professional skills and productive labor, and protect the rights and legitimate interests of workers.

Article 28 The state and society are attentive to implementing effective social welfare policies, especially for national heroes, veterans, retired civil servants, disabled persons, and families of martyrs who sacrificed for the revolution and those who have contributed to the nation.

Article 29 The state, society, and families pay attention to the promotion and advancement of women, and the protection of the rights and interests of women and children.

Article 30 (Amended) The state and society promote, expand, and develop cultural, historical, natural, and agricultural tourism into a tourism industry that has a distinct national identity and becomes a strategic economic sector. Tourism activities that harm the nation’s good cultural values or violate the law are strictly prohibited. Chapter III National Defense and Public Security 7

Article 31 The state implements policies and strategies for national defense and public security that are comprehensive and people-based. It develops and strengthens national defense and security forces to be robust, modern, well-organized, and imbued with patriotism and loyalty to the nation and the people. These forces must be capable of fulfilling their duties to safeguard the achievements of the revolution, the lives, property, and labor of the people, and contribute to national protection and development, ensuring prosperity and strength for the country.

Article 32 (Amended) National defense and public security are the responsibility, duty, and obligation of all organizations and every Lao citizen. The defense and security forces are the main pillars in safeguarding national independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity; protecting the lives and property of the people; and ensuring the stability and sustainability of the people’s democratic regime. National defense and public security must be closely linked with socio-economic development and environmental protection.

Article 33 (Amended) The defense and security forces must be continuously strengthened and developed, demonstrating loyalty to the nation, serving as the people’s armed forces with true revolutionary character, strict discipline, modern structure, and strong combat capabilities. They must play a core role in maintaining national stability, peace, and social order, as well as preventing, mitigating, and responding to crises and disasters. The state is committed to improving the foundations of national defense and public security, including weapons, vehicles, technical equipment, and technology, and enhancing the knowledge, skills, professionalism, strategy, and tactics of defense and security personnel.

Article 34 (Amended) The state and society focus on implementing policies that support the well-being, both material and mental, of the defense and security forces. The aim is to increase their capacity to effectively carry out their national protection duties and contribute to maintaining social order. Defense and security personnel must build self-reliance, discipline, and strength, and be ready to fulfill their duties and participate in national development. Chapter IV Fundamental Rights and Duties of Citizens

Article 35 8 A Lao citizen is a person who holds Lao nationality as defined by law. The state recognizes, respects, protects, and guarantees human rights and the fundamental rights of citizens in accordance with the law.

Article 36 All Lao citizens, regardless of gender, social status, education level, beliefs, or ethnicity, are equal before the law.

Article 37 Lao citizens aged eighteen (18) years and above have the right to vote, and those aged twenty (20) years and above have the right to stand for election, except those who are legally declared insane or mentally ill, or who have been convicted and stripped of civil and electoral rights by a court of law.

Article 38 Lao men and women enjoy equal rights in political, economic, cultural, social, and family life.

Article 39 Lao citizens have the right to education, research, and study to develop themselves and advance in life.

Article 40 Lao citizens have the right to work and engage in lawful professions. Workers have the right to rest, receive medical care when ill, and receive assistance in the case of disability, loss of capacity, old age, or other circumstances as provided by law.

Article 41 Lao citizens have the right to choose their residence and to move freely, as provided by law.

Article 42 Lao citizens have the right to petition, file complaints, and seek justice from relevant organizations regarding issues that affect either their collective or individual rights and interests. Petitions and complaints must be considered and resolved according to the procedures provided by law.

Article 43 Lao citizens have the right to personal safety and dignity, including life, body, reputation, and home. 9 They may not be arbitrarily arrested, detained, or have their homes searched without a warrant from the public prosecutor or people’s court, except in cases specified by law.

Article 44 Lao citizens have the freedom to believe or not believe in religion, provided it does not violate the law.

Article 45 Lao citizens have the right to freedom of speech, writing, assembly, association, and peaceful demonstration, provided these do not violate the law.

Article 46 Lao citizens have the right to freely explore and use scientific and technological advances, innovations, artistic creation, literature, and cultural activities, provided they are in accordance with the law.

Article 47 (Amended) The State protects the lawful rights and interests of Lao citizens residing abroad. Lao people living abroad are an inseparable part of the national community. The State encourages, promotes, and creates conditions for overseas Lao to protect and promote the cultural heritage of Laos, maintain good relations with their families and hometowns, and contribute to national development.

Article 48 Lao citizens have the duty to respect and comply with the Constitution, laws, labor regulations, norms of social conduct, and public order.

Article 49 Lao citizens have the obligation to pay taxes and duties as prescribed by law.

Article 50 Lao citizens have the duty to defend the nation and maintain public order, including military service as required by law.

Article 51 (Amended) Foreigners, stateless persons, and non-citizens residing in the Lao PDR have the right to legal protection and freedom, as defined by law. They have the right to petition, lodge complaints, and seek justice from relevant state organizations. They are obligated to respect the Constitution and laws of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. 10 Foreigners who have distinguished contributions to the defense and development of the country may be granted honorary citizenship of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Article 52 The Lao People’s Democratic Republic grants asylum to foreigners who are persecuted for their struggle for freedom, justice, peace, or scientific endeavors. Chapter V The National Assembly

Article 53 The National Assembly is the representative body of the rights and interests of the Lao multi-ethnic people. It is the supreme organ of state power, a legislative body, responsible for adopting the Constitution and laws, deciding on fundamental issues of national importance, and monitoring the implementation and compliance with the Constitution and laws by all state bodies.

Article 54 (Amended) The National Assembly has the following rights and duties: 1.​ Consider and adopt the Constitution and laws; 2.​ Consider and approve national visions, strategic plans, and socio-economic development plans, as well as the state budget plan and any revisions thereto; 3.​ Consider and approve financial and monetary policies, including budget deficits, public debt ratios, and state debt levels; 4.​ Determine, amend, abolish, or exempt tax and duty rates; 5.​ Elect or remove the President, Vice President, and members of the Standing Committee of the National Assembly; 6.​ Elect or remove the President and Vice President of the State; 7.​ Elect or remove the Prime Minister; 8.​ Elect or remove the President of the Supreme People’s Court, the President of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor, the President of the State Audit Organization, and the Head of the Central Anti-Corruption Organization; 9.​ Consider and approve the appointment, transfer, or removal of the Heads of the Parliamentary Committees and Parliamentary Office (Secretary General) of the National Assembly; 11 10.​ Consider and approve the appointment, transfer, or removal of the Deputy Prime Ministers and Members of Government; 11.​ Consider and approve the appointment, transfer, or removal of members of the Supreme People’s Court; 12.​ Approve the organizational structure of the National Assembly, including the establishment, merging, or dissolution of its internal bodies. 13.​ Consider and approve the organizational structure of the Government, the establishment, merging, or dissolution of ministries, ministry-equivalent state bodies, the capital city, and provinces; 14.​ Consider and approve the boundaries of the capital and provinces; 15.​ Consider the dissolution of local People’s Assemblies if it is found that they have caused serious harm to national or public interests; 16.​ Monitor and inspect the implementation and compliance with the Constitution and laws by state organizations; 17.​ Consider and approve the granting of amnesty; 18.​ Consider and approve the ratification, accession to, or withdrawal from international treaties to which the Lao PDR is a party, when such treaties concern fundamental issues of national importance; 19.​ Consider and approve matters of war and peace; 20.​ Annul legal acts of other organizations that contradict the Constitution and laws, except decisions related to the judicial proceedings of the People’s Court and the People’s Prosecutor.​

Article 55 Each term of the National Assembly lasts five years. Members of the National Assembly must be Lao citizens and are elected in accordance with the law. Elections for a new Assembly must be held no later than sixty days before the current term ends. In case of war or other serious obstacles preventing elections, the Assembly may extend its term. However, elections must take place no later than six months after conditions return to normal. If necessary, the Assembly may hold early elections before its term ends, with the approval of at least two-thirds of its members present at the session.

Article 56 (Amended) The Standing Committee of the National Assembly is the permanent body of the Assembly, acting on its behalf when the Assembly is not in session. 12 The Standing Committee consists of a President, a Vice President, and members. The President and Vice President of the National Assembly are also the President and Vice President of the Standing Committee. The President of the Standing Committee, the Presidents of the Commissions, and the Heads of the Assembly’s departments may serve no more than two consecutive terms.

Article 57 (Amended) The Standing Committee of the National Assembly has the following rights and duties: 1.​ Prepare and convene sessions of the National Assembly; 2.​ Propose the drafting, amendment, interpretation, and explanation of the Constitution and laws; 3.​ Propose draft legislation to the President of the State. 4.​ Appoint, transfer, or remove the heads of the court panels of the Supreme People’s Court and judges of the People’s Court; 5.​ Appoint the members of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor Committee; 6.​ Appoint the members of the National Election Committee; 7.​ Consider and decide on the ratification, accession, or withdrawal of international treaties to which the Lao PDR is a party; 8.​ Receive and consider petitions submitted by citizens seeking justice.

Article 58 (Amended) The National Assembly convenes two regular sessions per year. The Standing Committee may also convene an extraordinary session if deemed necessary and urgent. A session of the National Assembly can only proceed if more than half of its members are present.

Article 59 (Amended) A resolution of the National Assembly is valid only if more than half of the attending members vote in favor, except in cases stipulated by Articles 55, 67, 69, and 121 of the Constitution.

Article 60 (Amended) The following entities have the right to propose draft laws: 13 1.​ The President of the State; 2.​ The Standing Committee of the National Assembly; 3.​ The Government; 4.​ The Supreme People’s Court; 5.​ The Supreme People’s Prosecutor; 6.​ The State Inspection Authority; 7.​ The State Audit Organization; 8.​ The Lao Front for National Construction, the Lao Veterans Federation, and mass organizations at the central level.

Article 61 (Amended) A law approved by the National Assembly must be promulgated by the President no later than 30 days from the date of approval. Within this period, the President has the right to request reconsideration of the law by the National Assembly. If the National Assembly confirms its previous decision, the President must promulgate the law within 15 days thereafter. All promulgated laws must be published in the official gazette, unless the law specifies otherwise.

Article 62 Issues related to the fate of the nation and the vital interests of the people must be investigated and considered by the National Assembly or its Standing Committee.

Article 63 (Amended) The National Assembly shall establish committees and offices to serve as the Secretariat for the National Assembly and its Standing Committee, in order to organize and implement their duties within the scope of their rights and responsibilities.

Article 64 (Amended) Members of the National Assembly have the right to question the following officials: the President, the President of the National Assembly, the Prime Minister, members of the Government, the President of the Supreme People’s Court, the President of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor Office, the President of the State Inspection Authority, the Head of the Central Anti-Corruption Authority, and the President of the State Audit Organization. 14 Persons being questioned must respond before the National Assembly, either verbally or in writing.

Article 65 A member of the National Assembly shall not be subject to criminal proceedings, arrest, detention, or imprisonment unless permission is granted by the National Assembly or its Standing Committee. In cases involving an immediate offense or other urgent circumstances, the relevant authorities shall promptly report the matter to the National Assembly or its Standing Committee for deliberation. Ongoing investigations must not obstruct the participation of a National Assembly member in Assembly meetings. Chapter VI The President of the State

Article 66 (Amended) The President is the Head of State of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and represents the multiethnic Lao people both domestically and internationally. The President serves as the Chairman of the National Defense and Security Committee, and the Commander-in-Chief of the People’s Armed Forces. The President’s role is to guarantee the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, stability, and security of the nation.

Article 67 (Amended) The President is elected by the National Assembly with a vote of more than two-thirds of its attending members. The term of office of the President is equal to that of the National Assembly, and one individual may serve no more than two consecutive terms. The President has an Office of the President to assist in carrying out their duties.

Article 68 (Amended) The President has the following rights and responsibilities: 1.​ To promulgate the Constitution and laws; 2.​ To issue presidential ordinances and decrees; 3.​ To convene and preside over special meetings of the Government, and to participate in Standing Committee meetings of the National Assembly when necessary; 15 4.​ To appoint, transfer, or dismiss the Deputy Prime Minister and members of the Government, after approval by the National Assembly; 5.​ To appoint, transfer, or dismiss the Vice President of the Supreme People’s Court, the Vice President of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor Office, the Vice President of the State Inspection Authority, the Deputy Head of the Central Anti-Corruption Authority, and the Vice President of the State Audit Organization; 6.​ To decide on the promotion, demotion or removal of military ranks within the national defense and security forces; 7.​ To appoint, transfer, or dismiss the Head and Deputy Head of the Office of the President; 8.​ To appoint or recall Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Lao PDR abroad, and to accept or reject foreign Ambassadors or Permanent Representatives accredited to Laos; 9.​ To declare the formation of the national election commission, election dates, number of candidates, and seats for the National Assembly and provincial People’s Assemblies, based on proposals from the Standing Committee of the National Assembly; 10.​ To declare war or peace based on the decision of the National Assembly; to approve general or partial mobilization and the state of emergency nationwide or in specific regions; 11.​ To award or revoke national decorations such as Orders of Merit, Medals of Honor, Victory Medals, or other honorary titles; 12.​ To grant pardons and declare amnesties, after approval by the National Assembly; 13.​ To grant political asylum to foreign individuals. 14.​ To decide on negotiations or signings, to declare ratification or accession, and to approve or terminate treaties in the name of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Article 69 The President has a Vice President, elected by the National Assembly with a vote of more than two-thirds of its attending members. The Vice President performs duties as assigned by the President and represents the President during times when the President is occupied. If the President is unable to carry out their responsibilities, the Vice President shall serve as acting President until a new President is elected by the National Assembly. Chapter VII 16 The Government

Article 70 The Government is the executive branch responsible for state administration in a unified and comprehensive manner throughout the country. The Government is accountable to the National Assembly and the President of the State.

Article 71 (Amended) The Government has the following rights and duties: 1.​ To implement the strategic directions, Constitution, laws, resolutions of the National Assembly and of the Standing Committee of the National Assembly, as well as presidential ordinances and decrees; 2.​ To submit draft laws to the National Assembly, draft presidential ordinances to the Standing Committee of the National Assembly, and draft executive decrees to the President; 3.​ To issue decrees and decisions related to governance, economic and social affairs, science, technology, natural resources, environment, national defense and security, and foreign affairs; 4.​ To determine visions, strategic plans, socio-economic development plans, and state budgets, and propose them to the National Assembly for review and approval; 5.​ To propose to the National Assembly the establishment, merger, or dissolution of ministries, ministry-level organizations, the capital city, and provinces, as well as adjustments to their boundaries; 6.​ To decide on the establishment, merger, or dissolution of departments or ministry-equivalent organizations; 7.​ To decide on the establishment, merger, or dissolution of districts, municipalities, and their boundaries after approval by provincial People’s Assemblies; 8.​ To establish or dissolve special economic zones, specific economic zones, and international border checkpoints. 9.​ To lead, monitor, and inspect the operations of various bodies, including local administrative bodies, and national defense and security forces; 10.​ To decide on granting nationality, revoking nationality, restoring nationality, or reinstating Lao nationality; 11.​ To confer honorary citizenship to foreigners; 17 12.​ To decide on signing, approving, acceding to, or terminating international treaties and agreements on behalf of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic; 13.​ To suspend, repeal, or annul decisions, orders, or guidelines issued by ministries, ministry-equivalent bodies, and local administrations that contradict laws and other legal instruments, except for judgments and decisions of the People’s Court and the Office of the Public Prosecutor. 14.​ To report on its activities to the National Assembly, the Standing Committee of the National Assembly, and the President.

Article 72 The Government consists of the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Ministers, Ministers, and Heads of Ministry-equivalent organizations. The Government’s term shall be equal to that of the National Assembly. Members of the Government may serve for no more than two consecutive terms.

Article 73 (Amended) The Prime Minister is the head of the Government and its representative. They lead and direct the Government’s operations and the local administrations. The Prime Minister has the authority to appoint, transfer, or remove Vice Ministers, Vice-Chairpersons of ministry-equivalent organizations and heads and deputy heads of sub-ministries, Directors-General; and the Heads of the local commissions of the Capital and Provinces, following confirmation by the respective Provincial People’s Assemblies. They may also propose the promotion or dismissal of officers with the rank of General or Colonel within the national defense and public security forces.

Article 74 (Amended) The Deputy Prime Ministers assist the Prime Minister in leading Government operations and local administrations and are responsible for specific portfolios assigned by the Prime Minister. In the absence or incapacity of the Prime Minister, one of the Deputy Prime Ministers will serve as acting Prime Minister.

Article 75 Ministers and Heads of ministry-equivalent bodies are responsible for implementing and expanding resolutions from the National Assembly, its Standing Committee, and the Government. They are to lead, manage, and supervise the execution of work within their sectors and coordinate with others, and sign treaties and agreements with foreign countries based on Government approval. 18

Article 76 Any member of the Government or the entire Cabinet of Ministers may be subject to a vote of no confidence by the National Assembly if the Standing Committee of the National Assembly or at least one-fourth of all National Assembly members submit such a motion. In the event that a vote of no confidence is passed, the President may propose for the National Assembly to reconsider or may decide to dismiss the concerned member(s) of Government. Chapter VIII Local People’s Assemblies

Article 77 (Amended) The Local People’s Assembly is the representative body of the rights and interests of the Lao multi-ethnic people. It is the state authority at the local level, responsible for enacting legally binding resolutions within its jurisdiction, deliberating fundamental issues of the locality, and monitoring the work of local state bodies. Local People’s Assemblies are established according to levels of local governance, including the provincial level, the district level, and the sub-district level.The district and sub-district People’s Assemblies may be established based on a resolution of the National Assembly. The term of the Local People’s Assemblies shall be equal to that of the National Assembly.

Article 78 (Amended) The Provincial People’s Assembly has the following rights and duties: 1.​ To deliberate and approve resolutions that have general binding effect within its locality; 2.​ To deliberate and approve the local socio-economic development plan, state budget plan, and any proposed amendments to the local budget; 3.​ To elect or dismiss the President, Vice President, and members of the Standing Committee of the Provincial People’s Assembly; 4.​ To deliberate and approve the appointment, transfer, or dismissal of Administrative Committee Chairpersons and the Secretary General of the Provincial People’s Assembly; 5.​ To deliberate and approve the organizational structure of the Provincial People’s Assembly and any creation, integration, or dissolution of its departments; 6.​ To deliberate and approve the appointment, transfer, or dismissal of the Administrative Committee Chairpersons of the Capital or Province; 19 7.​ To deliberate and approve the organizational structure of the Provincial or Capital Administrative Committees; and proposals concerning the appointment, transfer, or dismissal of Vice Chairpersons of the Capital/Provincial Committees, Heads of Departments, Heads of department-equivalent bodies within the Capital/Provinces, Chairpersons of District/Municipality Administrative Committees. 8.​ To deliberate and approve the proposal of the Chairpersons of the Provincial or Capital Administrative Committees concerning the establishment, merging, or dissolution of departments and department-equivalent offices of the Capital or Province; 9.​ To deliberate and approve the proposal for the appointment, transfer, or dismissal of the President of the People’s Court at the Capital, Province, and District-levels; 10.​ To deliberate and approve the proposal for the appointment, transfer, or dismissal of the Head of the People’s Prosecutor’s Office at the Capital, Province, and District-levels; 11.​ To deliberate and approve the creation, dissolution, or boundary modification of districts, cities, and sub-districts; 12.​ To monitor and inspect the compliance and implementation of the Constitution and laws by local state organizations; 13.​ To revoke or annul regulations, orders, recommendations, or other legal acts of any agency under its jurisdiction or subordinate levels that conflict with the law, except for court judgments or decisions of the People’s Prosecutor’s Office.

Article 79 (Amended) The Standing Committee of the Provincial People’s Assembly is the executive body of the Provincial People’s Assembly and acts on its behalf during periods when the assembly is not in session. The Standing Committee is composed of a President, Vice President, and members. The President and Vice President of the Provincial People’s Assembly concurrently serve as the President and Vice President of the Standing Committee. The President of the Standing Committee, Chairpersons of committees, and Heads of departments within the Provincial People’s Assembly may serve no more than two consecutive terms.

Article 80 (Amended) The Standing Committee of the Provincial People’s Assembly has the following rights and duties: 1.​ To prepare and convene sessions of the Provincial People’s Assembly; 2.​ To deliberate and approve proposals for the appointment, transfer, or dismissal of People’s Court officials, as specified by law; 20 3.​ To deliberate and approve the proposal for the appointment of the members of the Provincial, Capital, or District/City Prosecutor’s Committee; 4.​ To appoint the local election committee; 5.​ To receive and consider citizen petitions for justice within its jurisdiction.​

Article 81 (Amended) The Provincial People’s Assembly shall convene two regular sessions per year. The Standing Committee of the Provincial People’s Assembly may also convene an extraordinary session if deemed necessary and urgent. A session may proceed only when more than half of all members of the Provincial People’s Assembly are present.

Article 82 Resolutions of the Provincial People’s Assembly shall be valid only when they receive a majority vote from the attending members of the Assembly.

Article 83 (Amended) The Provincial People’s Assembly shall establish various committees and offices to act as secretariat for the Assembly and its Standing Committee in the performance of their duties and within the scope of their rights.

Article 84 (Amended) Members of the Provincial People’s Assembly have the right to question the following officials: the Chairpersons of Capital and Provincial Administrative Committees; Heads of departments and department-equivalent bodies at the provincial level; Chairpersons of District and Capital Administrative Committees; Presidents of the People’s Courts; Heads of the People’s Prosecutor’s Office at the provincial and capital levels; Regional Audit Chairpersons; Provincial Heads of the State Inspection Authority; and Heads of provincial-level anti-corruption bodies. Those questioned must provide explanations to the Assembly either verbally or in writing.

Article 85 (Amended) A member of the Provincial People’s Assembly shall not be subject to criminal prosecution, arrest, detention, or imprisonment unless prior approval is obtained from the Assembly or its Standing Committee. In cases involving an immediate offense or other urgent circumstances, the relevant authorities must immediately report to the Assembly or its Standing Committee for consideration. 21 Ongoing investigation or interrogation shall not be a reason for preventing the member from participating in Assembly sessions. CHAPTER IX Local Administration

Article 86 (Amended) The Lao People’s Democratic Republic divides local administration into three levels: the Provincial level, the District level, and the Sub-district level. Villages are recognized as community organizations.

Article 87 (Amended) Local administrative bodies are the administrative organs at the local level. They are responsible for comprehensively managing state administration within their jurisdictions. Local administrative bodies are accountable to the Government and to their respective local people’s assemblies. They consist of the Administrative Committees at the Provincial, District, and Sub-district level. Each Administrative Committee comprises a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson(s), and members. The term of office of each Administrative Committee shall be equal to the term of the corresponding local people’s assembly.

Article 88 (Amended) Local administrative bodies shall have the following rights and duties: 1.​ Implement the Constitution, laws, legislation, resolutions of the local people’s assembly, and local socio-economic development and budget plans; 2.​ Develop local socio-economic development plans, budget plans, and national defense–security plans for submission to the local people’s assembly for consideration and approval; 3.​ Manage and oversee political, economic, cultural-social, national defense–security, natural resources, environmental, and other affairs in their jurisdictions; 4.​ Issue regulations related to economic, social, and defense-security management; 5.​ Monitor and inspect the implementation of duties by agencies under their supervision; 22 6.​ Manage Lao citizens, foreigners, stateless persons, and foreign residents within their territories; 7.​ Receive, review, and resolve petitions and proposals of the people; 8.​ Engage in foreign relations and cooperation as assigned by the Government; 9.​ Summarize and report on the overall implementation of duties in their jurisdictions to higher-level authorities and to their local people’s assemblies on a regular basis. CHAPTER X People’s Courts and People’s Prosecutor

Article 89 (Amended) The People’s Courts are judicial authorities. Only People’s Courts have the exclusive right to adjudicate and render judgments on cases in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. They operate at three levels: first instance, appellate, and cassation. The People’s Courts have the duty to protect justice, individual rights, the democratic people’s regime, and the legitimate interests of the state, collectives, and individuals or entities in accordance with the law.

Article 90 (Amended) The court system of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic consists of the Supreme People’s Court, Local People’s Courts, and Military Courts as stipulated by law.​ ​ Specialized courts may be established as necessary, subject to approval by the Standing Committee of the National Assembly.

Article 91 (Amended) The Supreme People’s Court is the highest judicial authority of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. It has the power to review, unify court judgments, and supervise the enforcement of final court decisions across all levels.

Article 92 (Amended) The President of the Supreme People’s Court is elected or removed by the National Assembly. Their term matches the term of the National Assembly, and they may not serve more than two consecutive terms. 23 The Vice President of the Supreme People’s Court is appointed, reassigned, or dismissed by the President of the State. The heads of judicial panels of the Supreme People’s Court and judges of the People’s Courts are appointed, reassigned, or dismissed by the Standing Committee of the National Assembly.

Article 93 (Amended) The People’s Courts adjudicate in judicial panels, and decisions are made based on a majority vote, except in cases where the law allows for a single judge to decide. During deliberations, judges must be independent and adhere strictly to the law.

Article 94 Court hearings must be public, except in cases otherwise specified by law.

Article 95 (Amended) Litigants have the right to contest and debate in legal proceedings. The accused has the right to be informed, to defend against the charges, and to contest the case either personally or through legal counsel. Lawyers have the right to assist litigants and the accused with legal representation and defense.

Article 96 (Amended) Representatives of social organizations and citizens have the right to participate in court proceedings as stipulated by law.

Article 97 (Amended) Final decisions of the People’s Courts must be respected and enforced by all Party and state organizations, the Lao Front for National Development, Lao Veterans’ Federation, mass organizations, social organizations, international organizations, and all citizens. Individuals, legal entities, and relevant organizations must strictly comply.

Article 98 (Amended) The People’s Prosecutor Office is the institution responsible for prosecuting defendants in court and overseeing compliance with the law and legal proceedings in the justice system.

Article 99 The People’s Prosecutor Office of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic consists of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor Office, the Local People’s Prosecutor Offices, and the Military Prosecutor Offices as defined by law. 24

Article 100 (Amended) The Head of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor Office leads and supervises the operations of all levels of the People’s Prosecutor Office.

Article 101 (Amended) The President of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor Office is elected or removed by the National Assembly. Their term is equal to that of the National Assembly, and they may serve no more than two consecutive terms. The Vice President is appointed, reassigned, or dismissed by the President of the State. Other senior officials and staff of the People’s Prosecutor Office, including heads and deputies of local and military prosecutor offices, are appointed, reassigned, or dismissed as specified by law.

Article 102 (Amended) During the course of legal proceedings, staff of the People’s Prosecutor Office must act strictly in accordance with the law. CHAPTER XI State Inspection and State Audit

Article 103 (New) State inspection refers to the operations of the State Inspection Authority in monitoring the implementation of policies, laws, mandates, rights, duties, and responsibilities of organizations and individuals. It also includes proposing solutions and corrective measures in accordance with the law.

Article 104 (New) The State Inspection Authority is responsible for monitoring, inspecting, preventing, and combating corruption, as well as reviewing and resolving violations of the law. The organizational structure of the State Inspection Authority is defined by law.

Article 105 (New) The Chairperson of the State Inspection Authority is elected or removed by the National Assembly and is accountable to the President, the National Assembly, for tasks involving state inspections, anti-corruption, and reviewing and resolving violations. The Chairperson may serve no more than two consecutive terms. The Vice-Chairperson is appointed, transferred, or dismissed by the President. 25 Chairpersons and Vice-Chairpersons of inspection authorities at each level are appointed, reassigned, or removed as defined by law.

Article 106 (New) The State Inspection Authority has the rights and duties as follows: 1.​ To inspect the implementation of policies, laws, plans, projects, duties, rights, and responsibilities of organizations that use state assets and budgets; 2.​ To monitor the conduct and responsibilities of civil servants, military, police, state enterprise employees, and other individuals who violate the law; 3.​ To inspect the implementation of inspection findings and court verdicts in corruption and money laundering cases related to corruption; 4.​ To audit state investment projects from the start, conduct inspections following audits and resolutions of the National Assembly or local People’s Assemblies, and handle asset declaration and income reporting; 5.​ To examine and address complaints, to prevent and combat corruption, and to investigate cases of corruption and related money laundering; 6.​ To propose corrective measures and solutions based on inspection findings; 7.​ To report on operations, especially inspection outcomes and corrective actions, to the National Assembly or local People’s Assemblies.​

Article 107 (Amended) State audit refers to the operations of the State Audit Organization in examining the management and use of the state budget, finances, and public assets.

Article 108 (Amended) The State Audit Organization is responsible for auditing and verifying the accuracy of, proposing corrective measures to, and following up on implementation of audit findings. The organizational structure of the State Audit Organization is defined by law.

Article 109 (Amended) The President of the State Audit Organization is elected or dismissed by the National Assembly and is directly accountable to the National Assembly. They must also report to the President, Prime Minister, and Standing Committee of the National Assembly regarding the audit work. The President may serve no more than two consecutive terms. The Vice President is appointed, transferred, or dismissed by the President. 26

Article 110 (Amended) The State Audit Organization has the following rights and duties: 1.​ To conduct independent audits according to law to verify the correctness of the preparation, amendment of the state budget, revenue plans, expenditure plans, investment plans, revenue projections, financial reports, legal compliance, and implementation outcomes; 2.​ To manage and monitor its own operations as well as those of regional audit offices as prescribed by law; 3.​ To report its activities and audit results as required by law; 4.​ To propose to relevant parties the implementation of necessary measures in response to legal violations found in audit results. Chapter XII Election Committees

Article 111 (Amended) The Election Committee consists of the National Election Committee and the Local Election Committees. The National Election Committee is established by the Standing Committee of the National Assembly and officially proclaimed by the President. It is responsible for overseeing the election of members of the National Assembly, members of the Local People’s Assemblies, and the establishment of local election committees. The Local Election Committees are established and officially proclaimed by the Standing Committees of the respective Local People’s Assemblies. They are responsible for implementing the plans of the National Election Committee within their jurisdiction for the election of members of the National Assembly and members of Local People’s Assemblies.

Article 112 (Amended) Both the National and Local Election Committees are composed of a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and members. The term of the National Election Committee ends after the first session of the newly elected National Assembly. The term of Local Election Committees ends after the first session of the newly elected Local People’s Assembly at that level. The rights and duties of both National and Local Election Committees are defined by law. 27 Chapter XIII Language, Script, National Emblem, National Flag, National Anthem, National Day, Currency, and Capital

Article 113 The Lao language and Lao script are the official language and script of the country.

Article 114 The national emblem of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic is circular. At the bottom, there is an image of half a cogwheel, above which is a red banner inscribed with the words: “Lao People’s Democratic Republic.” On both sides are stalks of fully ripe rice, forming a crescent shape. Another red banner across the middle bears the words: “Peace, Independence, Democracy, Unity, and Prosperity.” In the center of the circle are images of the That Luang stupa, a road, rice fields, forests, and a hydroelectric dam.

Article 115 The national flag of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic has a blue field with red stripes on the top and bottom. A white moon is centered in the middle of the blue band. The height of the flag is two-thirds its length. Each red stripe is half the height of the blue band. The diameter of the white moon is four-fifths the height of the blue band.

Article 116 The national anthem of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic is the song titled “Pheng Xat Lao” (The Lao National Anthem).

Article 117 The National Day of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic is December 2, 1975, which marks the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Article 118 The currency of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic is the Kip.

Article 119 The capital city of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic is Vientiane Capital. 28 Chapter XIV Final Provisions

Article 120 (Amended) The Constitution of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic is the fundamental law of the nation. All other laws must conform to the Constitution. The state has designated August 15, 1991, as National Constitution Day.

Article 121 Only the National Assembly has the power to amend the Constitution of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. The Constitution shall be adopted only when more than two-thirds of the total number of National Assembly members vote in favor.

Article 122 (Amended) This revised Constitution shall take legal effect from the day the President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic issues a presidential decree to promulgate it. This Constitution replaces the previous Constitution of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, No. 63/NA, dated 8 December 2015. ​ ​ President of the National Assembly [Seal and signature of the National Assembly President] Dr. Saysomphone Phomvihane 29