Laos: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Laos 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Laos: 94
  • Happiness Score Laos:5.139

Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.

What is the Happiness Index?

The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.

How is the Happiness Index Calculated?

The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.

In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:

  1. GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
  2. Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
  3. Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
  4. Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
  5. Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
  6. Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.

These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.

What Does the Happiness Index Affect?

The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:

  1. Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
  2. Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
  3. Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
  4. Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.

By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.

Short information

  • Abbreviation of Laos. LA.
    • Laos is a communist country with a one-party political system.
    • It is known for its diverse cultural heritage, including unique traditional clothing and dance.
    • The economy of Laos is heavily dependent on agriculture, particularly rice production, and is also increasingly reliant on tourism.

    Laos – Country Overview

    Early History: The territory of present-day Laos has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the prehistoric period. The region was home to various ethnic groups, including the Mon-Khmer and Tai peoples. The earliest known kingdoms in the area were the Chenla and Funan kingdoms, which flourished during the 6th to 8th centuries CE.

    Kingdoms and Empires: The powerful Khmer Empire, centered in present-day Cambodia, exerted influence over parts of Laos from the 9th to the 13th centuries. In the 14th century, the Lao kingdom of Lan Xang emerged, uniting various principalities and becoming a dominant power in the region until its decline in the late 17th century.

    Colonial Period: In the late 18th century, Siam (now Thailand) gained control over parts of Laos. In the late 19th century, the French established a protectorate over the remaining territories, incorporating them into French Indochina.

    Independence and Modern Era: Laos gained independence from France in 1949 but was soon embroiled in the Indochina Wars. After a period of civil war and involvement in the Vietnam War, the communist Pathet Lao movement took control in 1975, establishing the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

    Current Political Situation: Laos is a single-party socialist republic, with the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party as the sole legal party. The prime minister, currently Phankham Viphavanh, is the head of government, while Thongloun Sisoulith serves as the president and head of state.

    International Relations: Laos maintains close ties with its neighbors, particularly Vietnam and Thailand. It is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and has strengthened relations with China in recent years.

    Human Development and Economy: Laos is a lower-middle-income country with an economy heavily dependent on agriculture, natural resources, and tourism. Major industries include mining, hydropower, and textiles. The country continues to face challenges in areas such as poverty reduction, education, and healthcare.

    Cultural Highlights: Laos has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Buddhism and animist beliefs. The country is known for its ancient temples, vibrant festivals, and unique cuisine. The Lao language is the official language, and ethnic diversity is celebrated through various traditions.

    Conclusion: Laos faces ongoing challenges related to poverty, economic development, and environmental conservation. However, with its rich cultural heritage, natural resources, and strategic location in Southeast Asia, the country has opportunities for sustainable growth and increased regional integration.

    Travel Tips for Laos

    Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit Laos is during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

    Cultural Etiquette: Respect Buddhist customs by dressing modestly, removing shoes when entering temples, and avoiding public displays of affection. Greet elders with a slight bow and the traditional “Nop” gesture.

    Safety Precautions: Exercise caution when traveling in remote areas, especially near borders. Avoid demonstrations or protests, and be aware of petty crime in major cities.

    Must-See Landmarks: Visit the ancient capital of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning temples and French colonial architecture. Explore the Plain of Jars, a mysterious archaeological site with thousands of ancient stone jars.

    Culinary Experiences: Try traditional Lao dishes like larb (spicy meat salad), khao poon (rice noodle soup), and tam mak hung (spicy papaya salad). Don’t miss the unique flavors of Lao cuisine, influenced by Thai, Vietnamese, and French culinary traditions.

Main facts

Location

Laos is a landlocked country situated in Southeast Asia. It borders Myanmar and China to the northwest, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the southeast, and Thailand to the west and southwest. Laos is situated along the Mekong River, which forms a significant part of its western border.

Map References

Laos is located in Southeast Asia, within the Indochinese Peninsula.

Area – Comparative

With an area of approximately 236,800 square kilometers, Laos is slightly larger than the state of Utah in the United States.

Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Laos shares land borders with the following countries:

Coastline

Laos is a landlocked country and does not have a coastline.

Maritime Claims

As a landlocked country, Laos does not have any maritime claims.

Climate

Laos has a tropical monsoon climate, with a rainy season from May to November and a dry season from December to April. The climate varies by region, with cooler temperatures in the mountainous areas.

Terrain

Laos is predominantly mountainous, with the Annamite Range in the east and the Luang Prabang Range in the north. The Mekong River forms a broad valley in the west, and the Khorat Plateau covers parts of southern Laos.

Elevation Extremes

The highest point in Laos is Phou Bia at 2,817 meters, while the lowest point is the Mekong River at 70 meters.

Natural Resources

Laos’ major natural resources include timber, hydropower, gypsum, tin, gold, gemstones, and potential oil and gas reserves.

Major Bodies of Water

The Mekong River is the most significant body of water in Laos, forming a large part of the country’s western border with Thailand. Other notable rivers include the Nam Ou, Nam Ngum, and Xe Bangfai.

Natural Hazards

Common natural hazards in Laos include floods, droughts, and occasional typhoons.

Geography – Notes

Laos is a heavily forested country, with forests covering approximately 68% of its total land area. However, deforestation due to logging and land clearing for agriculture remains a significant environmental concern.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 82.10%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 17,763. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
  • Agricultural Land( %). 10.30%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  19.85627102.495496.
  • Capital: The capital of Laos is  Vientiane
  • Major Cities:
    • Vientiane – Population: 783,000
    • Luang Prabang – Population: 56,000
    • Savannakhet – Population: 120,000
    • Pakse – Population: 87,000
  • Population: 7,169,455
  • Area(Km2): 236800
  • Population Density( P/Km²):32. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:856
  • Official Language(s):Laos is Lao (official) 53.2%, other languages 46.8%
  • Currency: LAK

Main Economic Indicators

Laos is a developing nation with a small, lower-middle-income economy. The country has a narrow economic base, with agriculture and natural resource exports playing a significant role. Key challenges include high poverty rates, inefficient investment planning, lack of skilled labor, and inadequate infrastructure. Notable economic policies focus on attracting foreign investment and promoting economic integration within the ASEAN region.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

5.6% (2022 est.)
4.0% (2021 est.)
Source: CIA World Factbook

Credit Ratings

Fitch: Not Rated
Moody’s: Not Rated
Standard & Poor’s: Not Rated

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 18.6% (2017 est.)
Industry: 32.9% (2017 est.)
Services: 48.5% (2017 est.)

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: Sweet potatoes, cassava, rice, maize, sugarcane, vegetables, peanuts, bananas, coffee, tobacco
Industrial Products: Mining, timber, construction materials, garments, electric power, tin, trucks, handicrafts

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 3.69 million (2017 est.)
Comparative Ranking: Not available

Current Account Balance

$-1.05 billion (2021 est.)
$-644 million (2020 est.)
Comparative Ranking: Not available

Exports and Imports

Exports: $6.01 billion (2021 est.)
Key Partners: China, Thailand, Vietnam, India, Germany
Main Commodities: Wood products, clothing, electric power, copper, coffee, tin
Imports: $6.56 billion (2021 est.)
Key Partners: Thailand, China, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea
Main Commodities: Machinery and equipment, vehicles, fuel, consumer goods

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign Exchange Reserves: $1.45 billion (2021 est.)
Gold Reserves: Not available

  • GDP (Current US$):$18,173,839,128. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
  • Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 12.90%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
  • Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): 24.10%. This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
  • Gasoline Price. $0.93. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
  • Minimum wage. $0.83. It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
  • Unemployment Rate (%): 0.63%. It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.

Social Indicators

1. National Identity

Noun: Lao people
Adjective: Lao

2. Ethnic Groups

Major ethnic groups:
– Lao: 53.2%
– Khmou: 11%
– Hmong: 9.2%
– Phouthai: 3.4%
– Tai: 3.1%
– Makong: 2.5%
– Katang: 2.2%
– Lue: 2%
– Others: 13.4%

3. Religions

Religious affiliations:
– Buddhist: 64.7%
– Folk religion: 31.4%
– Christian: 1.7%
– Muslim: 0.9%
– Other/None: 1.3%

4. Age Structure

Age group distribution:
– 0-14 years: 32.1%
– 15-64 years: 63.6%
– 65 years and over: 4.3%

5. Dependency Ratios

Dependency ratios:
– Total dependency ratio: 57.5
– Youth dependency ratio: 50.5
– Elderly dependency ratio: 7
– Potential support ratio: 17.5

6. Median Age

Median age:
– Total: 24.6 years
– Male: 23.8 years
– Female: 25.4 years

7. Lifestyle Indicators

Obesity rate: 5.8% of the adult population
Alcohol consumption: 8.1 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
Tobacco use: 34.7% of adults (aged 15+) smoke tobacco

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 67.6. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
  • Literacy Rate (% of adults): 72.7%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
  • Birth Rate:23.55. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
  • Death Rate:7. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
  • Fertility Rate: 2.67. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
  • Internet Users (% of population): 23.6%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
  • Urban Population: 2,555,552. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
  • Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):45.40%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.

Infrastructure and Services

Military and Security Forces

The Lao People’s Armed Forces (LPAF) is composed of the following branches:

  • Lao People’s Army (Ground Forces)
  • Lao People’s Navy
  • Lao People’s Air Force

Laos does not maintain a Coast Guard. The national police force is responsible for internal security, with paramilitary units assisting in maintaining public order.

Military Expenditures

Military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:

  • 2022: 0.2%
  • 2021: 0.2%
  • 2020: 0.2%
  • 2019: 0.2%
  • 2018: 0.2%

Laos ranks among the lowest in global military spending.

Personnel Strengths

Total active-duty military personnel: Approximately 30,000

  • Lao People’s Army: 28,000
  • Lao People’s Navy: 1,000
  • Lao People’s Air Force: 1,000

The national police force has an estimated strength of 12,000 personnel.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

Laos primarily relies on aging Soviet-era and Chinese-supplied equipment, including:

  • Main Battle Tanks: T-34, T-54/55
  • Armored Personnel Carriers: BTR-60, BTR-70
  • Artillery: D-30, M-30, M-1938 (howitzers)
  • Combat Aircraft: MiG-21, L-39 (trainers)
  • Transport Aircraft: An-26, C-212

Due to budget constraints, Laos has limited plans for major military acquisitions or development programs.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Voluntary military service is available for men and women aged 18-28 years. There is currently no mandatory military service obligation.

Military Deployments

Laos has a small contingent of peacekeepers serving in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Strategic Military Notes

Defense Strategy

Laos maintains a defensive military posture, focused on border security and counterinsurgency operations against remaining Hmong insurgent groups. The country does not face significant external threats.

International Security Role

Laos has a limited role in international security due to its modest military capabilities. It participates in regional security dialogues and cooperates with ASEAN member states on transnational issues like counterterrorism and disaster relief.

  • Armed Forces Size: 29000. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
  • Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 0.37
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 78.50%. This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.

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