A reporter interviews Politburo member and Head of the Commission for Information and Education of the Central Committee, Mr Khamphan Pheuyavong.

First National Media Congress: A new chapter for Lao media

The First National Media Congress is more than a landmark event; it is a declaration of confidence that the media, guided by strong leadership, professional excellence, and a commitment to truth, is ready to embrace the future and contribute even more effectively to Laos’ development.
Taking place in Vientiane from July 13-15, the congress represents a historic turning point for the media industry as journalists, editors, broadcasters, publishers and policymakers come together with a shared ambition—to introduce widespread reform, encourage higher professional standards, and embark on a new era of development.
For decades, the media has played an important role in informing the public, fostering national development, and communicating the policies of the Party and State.
The congress comes at a time when the media industry is experiencing unprecedented change. Rapid technological advances, the rise of digital platforms, the spread of artificial intelligence, and the growing challenge of misinformation have transformed the way information is produced and consumed.
These developments require the media to adapt while remaining faithful to its fundamental mission of serving the people and safeguarding the nation’s interests.

The media is fully involved in preparations for the congress.

In a recent interview, Politburo member and Head of the Commission for Information and Education of the Central Committee, Mr Khamphan Pheuyavong, described the congress as an important step following the transfer of media organisations to the direct leadership and guidance of the Commission for Information and Education of the Central Committee.
The move means the media is playing an even more instrumental role in disseminating the Party and State’s guidelines and policies while actively countering distorted information and misleading narratives spread by ill-intentioned groups.
Under Politburo Resolution No. 23, issued on February 24, 2026, an overall responsible committee was established to oversee preparations for the congress.
Four subcommittees were formed to ensure every aspect of the event is thoroughly planned: the content committee, advertising committee, security and healthcare committee, and the supporting committee (economics, personnel, and administration-protocol).
Preparations began shortly after the conclusion of the 12th National Party Congress and have involved five months of intensive work.
Throughout the process, the organising committee was closely guided by the Politburo, the Secretariat of the Party Central Committee, and senior national leaders.
Relevant departments under the Commission for Information and Education of the Central Committee also organised seminars, gathered information, and prepared numerous documents.
Organisers acknowledge that arranging the country’s first media congress has not been without challenges. With no previous event of this scale to draw upon, there was limited historical data available for comparison and documentation.
Nevertheless, these challenges have only reinforced the determination to make the congress a meaningful event.
Beyond its ceremonial significance, the congress has a clear mission—to initiate the comprehensive transformation of media operations.
Participants will review the implementation of existing legislation governing the media, examine the organisational structure of media institutions, and assess the development of human resources.
The congress will also consider ways to strengthen technical infrastructure, improve financial management, and modernise newsroom operations to ensure media organisations are better equipped to meet the demands of an increasingly digital world.
Based on the meeting, a new Politburo resolution will be issued to replace Resolution No. 36, which has been in effect since 1993.
More than three decades have passed since that resolution was introduced, during which the communication landscape has changed dramatically.
A new policy framework is expected to provide updated guidance that reflects today’s technological environment while maintaining the media’s political and social responsibilities.
The congress is not only about reviewing policies, but also about investing in people.
Capacity-building programmes will be organised for media professionals, focusing on three key areas: strengthening the Party’s leadership in media work, raising standards of professional ethics, and improving understanding of the law governing journalism.
These priorities recognise that high-quality journalism depends not only on the use of modern equipment, but also on a capable, responsible and ethical workforce. Professional skills, integrity and commitment to truth should remain the foundation of credible journalism.
The congress further highlights that the media should continue to focus on reality, education, guidance and constructive criticism. These principles have long defined the mission of the Lao media and remain relevant as journalists respond to increasingly complex social, economic and technological changes.
As Laos continues on its development path, the media is expected to play an even greater role in promoting unity, supporting socio-economic progress, preserving cultural heritage, and strengthening public confidence through accurate, balanced and responsible reporting.
The Party Secretary General delivered a powerful speech to mark the 70th Media and Publication Day in 2020, at a time when he was also Prime Minister.
He said “A reporter is someone who shines a light, who pierces the heart, who provokes strong feelings in the reader, who dares to overcome obstacles, who loves the truth, and who hits the target with their words.”
This definition reflects the enduring mission of reporters—not merely to report events, but to inspire understanding, encourage positive change, and uphold truth in the service of the nation.
As delegates gather in Vientiane, the First National Media Congress offers an opportunity to transform those guiding principles into practical action.
The meeting is an unprecedented opportunity for media personnel to voice their thoughts, strengthen cooperation, and develop a shared vision for the future of Lao journalism.
The congress also sends a clear message that the media is entering a new stage of development—one that embraces innovation while remaining firmly committed to its core values of truthfulness, responsibility and service to the people.
As the gathering begins, media professionals across the country are being called upon to preserve the proud traditions of Lao journalism, build upon their achievements, uphold the law, maintain the highest ethical standards, and remain a trusted voice of the Party and people.

By Khonesavanh Latsaphao
 (Latest Update July 14, 2026)