GENEVA - The Special Rapporteur in the field of cultural rights, Alexandra Xanthaki, will conduct a country visit to the Lao People's Democratic Republic from 19 to 29 November 2024.
Xanthaki will focus on the right of all, including minority groups and indigenous peoples, to participate in the cultural life of their choice through all means of expressions. She will also consider their right to take part in the decision-making processes that impact their cultural rights, including in policies concerning sustainable and cultural development. Further, she will examine the measures, spaces and policies fostering cultural diversity and interculturality.
The Special Rapporteur will meet with officials at central and local level, as well as other stakeholders such as civil society organisations and non-profit associations. She will travel to Vientiane, Luang-Prabang, Thakhek and Boualapha, also visiting surrounding villages and parts of the Hin Nam No National Park.
Xanthaki will present her preliminary findings and recommendations at a press conference on Friday 29 November at 12:00 (local time), at the United Nations Office, Vientiane. Access will be strictly limited to journalists.
The final report on the Special Rapporteur's visit will be presented to the Human Rights Council.
