What language is spoken in Laos?
The official language of Laos is Lao, spoken by approximately 58% of the population. Khmu, Thai, Hmong Njua, and other regional languages are also found. French persists among some inhabitants, but English is becoming the first foreign language learned.
Lao, official language
The lao constitutes the official language of Laos and remains spoken by approximately 58% of the population. This language uses the lao alphabet, derived from ancient Khmer writing.
Regional languages
Laos has many minority languages distributed according to regions:
- Khmou: spoken mainly in the north
- Thai: present in several provinces
- Hmong njua: language of hmong mountain communities
- Phu, sô and phuan: other local dialects
Foreign languages
French remains spoken by part of the population, a remnant of the colonial period when it was the official language. Today, English has become the main foreign language taught and practiced, particularly in the tourism sector.