IN THE SHADOWS OF POWER:
Women Confronting Patriarchy in Laos
29 November 2023
This joint Civil Society CEDAW report submitted by Manushya Foundation and Power by Keyboard aims to assist the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (88 Pre-Sessional Working Group, 30 Oct 2023 - 3 Nov 2023) in its review of the Lao People Democratic Republic’s upcoming Periodic Report on the implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. Lao PDR signed the CEDAW on 17 July 1980 and ratified it on 14 August 1981. The Joint CEDAW Report relates to Articles 1 to 16 of the CEDAW Convention and provides an inclusive and accurate overview of the most challenging issues faced by women in Laos – notably in relations to gender-based discrimination, WHRDs' access to civic space, gender stereotypes, trafficking, participation in public life, access to nationality, education, employment & healthcare, social benefits, rural living, equality before the law, and family life -.
The comprehensive analysis and data presented in this report are a direct result of the data collection undertaken on the ground, diligent monitoring and substantial efforts by Manushya Foundation and Power by Keyboard, who are strongly dedicated to advancing women’s rights and the state of human rights in Lao PDR.