Lao Journalists Association Proposes Stronger Media Rights Protection in Digital Era

Mr. Savankhone Razmountry, President of the Lao Journalists Association, presented a paper titled "Protecting Media Rights and Interests in the Industry 4.0 Era" at the First National Media Conference on July 14, stating that safeguarding journalists' rights and welfare is essential to strengthening professional, credible, and independent media. He emphasized the need for journalists to be equipped with modern skills, legal protection, and adequate welfare to enable them to carry out their duties confidently as trusted communicators in an increasingly complex digital environment. Mr. Savankhone proposed amending the Media Law to enhance legal safeguards for journalists and establishing a dedicated Media Development Fund financed through state support, social contributions, advertising-related fees, and revenue generated from large international digital platforms. He also called for expanded professional training in digital journalism, media management, and emerging technologies, stronger partnerships with international media organizations, and the creation of legal advisory networks to assist journalists facing professional or legal challenges. Furthermore, he recommended updating media ethics and online media regulations to reflect technological advances while remaining consistent with Lao law, establishing a technical advisory body for media technology, and introducing annual national awards to recognize outstanding journalists. Mr. Savankhone also warned that the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence poses new challenges for news organizations, noting that many AI systems reproduce journalists' work without authorization or compensation, undermining intellectual property rights and affecting the sustainability of professional journalism. He urged journalists to embrace emerging technologies while maintaining strong ethical standards, professional responsibility, and public trust in the digital age. At the same conference, Thongly Sisoulith, Secretary of the Central Committee of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Youth Union, said that media must play a greater role in shaping the values, awareness, and critical thinking of young people by delivering credible, innovative, and engaging content across digital platforms. Vannasin Simmavong, Director General of the Lao News Agency (KPL), stated that strengthening news analysis and critical reporting is essential for improving the quality and credibility of Lao media in the digital era. The Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and the Government have reaffirmed the strategic role of the media as a key instrument for disseminating Party guidelines, State policies, and laws, while promoting national unity and supporting the country’s socio-economic development.