ABSTRACT
The Lao People’s Democratic Republic, in Southeast Asia, is landlocked by Myanmar, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. The population of 7.6 million people is diverse, with 49 ethnic groups formally recognized by the government. However, as many as 200 different ethnic groups exist overall. The majority of the population identifies as ethnically Lao, with smaller portions identifying as Khmou, Hmong, Phouthay, Tai, Makong, Katong, Lue, and Akha. Languages spoken include the official language, Lao, as well as French, English, and a variety of local ethnic languages. The majority of the population practices Buddhism. About 37 percent of the population lives in urban areas, such as Vientiane, the capital, and some larger settlements along the Mekong River and the southwestern border.
