What is the legality of prostitution in Laos?

What is the Legal Status of Prostitution in Laos?

Prostitution in Laos is considered illegal, with the country having a strong stance against the sex trade. However, despite its illegality, prostitution remains a prevalent issue within the country, with many women and girls engaged in the industry due to factors such as poverty, lack of education, and limited economic opportunities.

What Laws and Penalties Exist for Prostitution in Laos?

There are several laws in place in Laos that target various aspects of prostitution. These laws and their penalties include:

• Penal Code, Article 134: This article criminalizes the act of selling sex, with penalties ranging from three months to one year in prison, along with fines.
• Penal Code, Article 135: This article criminalizes the act of soliciting for prostitution, with penalties ranging from three months to one year in prison, along with fines.
• Penal Code, Article 136: This article criminalizes the act of procuring or promoting prostitution, with penalties ranging from one to five years in prison, along with fines.
• Penal Code, Article 137: This article criminalizes the act of operating a brothel, with penalties ranging from one to five years in prison, along with fines.
• Penal Code, Article 138: This article criminalizes the act of knowingly living off the earnings of prostitution, with penalties ranging from three months to one year in prison, along with fines.

How is Prostitution Referred to Locally in Laos?

In Laos, prostitution is often referred to as phuying praphet song, which translates to women who sell themselves for money. The term is widely used among locals to describe those engaged in the sex trade, and it reflects the general attitude towards prostitution in the country as a frowned-upon and stigmatized activity.

What is the History of Prostitution in Laos?

Prostitution has a long history in Laos, dating back to the pre-colonial era. During the French colonial period, prostitution was regulated and organized in designated areas, with the authorities taking a relatively lenient approach towards the sex trade. However, following the country’s independence in 1954, the new government adopted a more conservative stance on prostitution, culminating in the passage of strict anti-prostitution laws in the late 20th century.

Despite the legal crackdown on prostitution, the industry has continued to thrive in Laos, particularly in urban areas and along the country’s borders with Thailand and Vietnam. This is due in part to the widespread poverty and limited economic opportunities for women in the country, as well as the growing demand for commercial sex from both domestic and foreign clients.

Where Can You Find Helpful Links, Government Laws, and Resources Related to Prostitution in Laos?

For more information on prostitution in Laos and the related laws and resources, you can consult the following links:

• Refworld – Laos Penal Code (English Translation)
• ECPAT – Laos Country Overview
• U.S. Department of State – Trafficking in Persons Report: Laos
• Open Development Laos – Prostitution