Lao People's Democratic Republic

The Constitution of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic was adopted on 15 August 1991 and was amended for the first time on 6 May 2003. This first modern Constitution of the Lao PDR abolishes the former constitutional monarchy and establishes a unicameral National Assembly. The adoption of the 1991 Constitution of the Lao PDR marked the great achievements of over 60 years of struggles for national liberation and re-construction. The Constitution clearly delineates the powers and duties of the Political Regime, the Socio Economic System and for the first time in history, the Fundamental Rights and Duties of the Citizens.

The Constitution does not contain provisions which specify the primary intellectual property rights relating to patents, trademarks and copyrights. It however protects: the right to preserve the national culture, natural heritage, fine tradition, antiques and historical places of the country and its ethnic minorities (Chapter 2, Article 23), the national emblem and flag (Chapter 4, Articles 76 & 77), the right to transfer of technology (Chapter 2, Article 24) and the right to create artistic and literary works and to engage in cultural activities (Chapter 4, Article 45).

The Constitution also contains the provisions that define the protection and promotion of all forms of property rights in Chapter 2, Articles 16 & 17; and Chapter 3, Article 13.