Joint Statement

Australia and Lao PDR held the 7th bilateral Human Rights Dialogue on 9 December 2021 by videoconference.  

The parties had an open and constructive discussion on a broad range of human rights issues, including civil and political rights, the rights of people who experience vulnerability, engagement with international human rights mechanisms, as well as bilateral and regional cooperation.

The two countries discussed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the promotion and protection of human rights and the challenges facing all countries as they respond to, and recover from, the pandemic. The parties noted that COVID-19 had impacted peoples’ livelihoods, freedom of movement and socio-economic development.

Parties agreed that civil society contributed to development and improved social outcomes, including through delivering community projects. While acknowledging efforts by the Lao PDR to consult and support civil society, Australia identified further scope to facilitate and promote their work, particularly in rural and remote areas.

Both countries underlined the priority they accorded to protecting the human rights of people who experience vulnerability, including women and children and people with a disability. Australia welcomed Lao PDR’s adoption of a National Action Plan to coordinate implementation of Laos’ commitments under the Convention on the Rights of the Child.  

The parties discussed their respective policies and approaches to LGBTI rights and Australia advocated for greater protections for, and consultation with, LGBTI persons in Laos.

Lao PDR provided an update on appeal mechanisms for death sentences and its wide consultation process on the death penalty. Australia encouraged Laos to abolish the death penalty and consider a formal moratorium.

Australia raised individual cases of concern and requested an update on implementation of Lao PDR’s international commitments with respect to human rights defenders. Australia stressed the importance of freedom of expression, freedom of association and assembly and freedom of religion or belief. 

Parties welcomed bilateral cooperation through the Australia-Laos Human Rights Technical Cooperation Program, delivered by the Australian Human Rights Commission, including to support civil society engagement in Lao PDR’s UN Universal Periodic Review. Australia committed to continuing to support Lao PDR advance human rights under this program, including offering to work with Lao PDR on mechanisms for meaningful consultations with, and equitable compensation for, communities impacted by land acquisitions. 

Australia and Lao PDR acknowledged the importance of the Dialogue to their longstanding bilateral relationship, and the value in sharing experiences and lessons with each other to address human rights challenges.

Natasha Smith, First Assistant Secretary, Multilateral Policy Division of DFAT, co-chaired the Dialogue with Mr Douangmany Gnotsyoudom, Director General of the Department of Treaty and Law, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR.