This week New Mandala is launching a month-long focus on Laos. Together with posts by the regular New Mandala bloggers, there were will a number of guest writers, many of whom are actively involved in exciting new research in Laos. Other contributions from readers are welcome – either by commenting on posts or by submitting material to New Mandala by email. In addition to commentary and analysis we would welcome announcements about publications, conferences and other events of interest.

During the month we will be focussing on a wide range of issues affecting the Lao people, such as:

  • Lao dilemmas of development
  • Laos’ relations with its neighbours
  • Laos and the Greater Mekong Subregion
  • Lao experience of modernity
  • Minorities in Laos
  • The Nam Theun 2 Dam and other major developments
  • “Lao style democracy”
  • Natural resource management in Laos
  • Modern Lao culture
  • Lao publications
  • New research on Laos
  • And more!

The Focus on Laos posts will be accessible just by hitting the icon in the left hand column.

Of course, throughout the Focus on Laos month New Mandala will feature ongoing anecdote, analysis and new perspectives on the other countries in the region!