In this article we will delve into the fascinating world of List of ethnic groups in Laos. Throughout history, List of ethnic groups in Laos has played a crucial role in different aspects of society, from its impact on culture and traditions to its influence on economics and politics. We will explore the different approaches and perspectives that exist around List of ethnic groups in Laos, as well as its evolution over time. This topic offers us the opportunity to reflect and understand the importance of List of ethnic groups in Laos in our lives and in the world around us.
Specialists are largely in agreement as to the ethnolinguistic classification of the ethnic groups of Laos. For the purposes of the 1995 census, the government of Laos recognized 149 ethnic groups within 47 main ethnicities. whereas the Lao Front for National Construction (LFNC) recently revised the list to include 49 ethnicities consisting of over 160 ethnic groups.
The term ethnic minorities is used by some to classify the non-Lao ethnic groups, while the term indigenous peoples is not used by Lao authorities. These 160 ethnic groups speak a total of 82 distinct living languages.
Kassak (located to the south and southeast of Luang Prabang, in an area bounded by the Nam Khan River, Phu Hin Salik, Nam Sanane River, Nam Ming River, and Nam Khan River up to Xieng Ngeun District). The Kassak language is a Lao dialect, although the Kassak people live a lifestyle similar to that of the Khmu people.
Below are some ethnic groups of Laos who speak unclassified languages, listed roughly from north to south. District codes are also given (see districts of Laos).
Ban Phoumon. Boun-Tai (2-07) and Khoa (2-03) districts, southern Phongsaly Province
Pouhoy
200 (1995; 35 families)
Oy, Katuic?
Kang Village, Namo District (4-03), northern Oudomxai Province
Taket
< 1,000
Austro-Asiatic?
Nambak District (6-05), Luang Prabang Province
Tamoy
500 (< 15 villages)
Palaungic, Khmuic?
Viangphoukha District (3-04), Luang Namtha Province
Nguan
30,000
Lametic, Palaungic?
Nale (3-05), Viangphoukha (3-04), and Luang Namtha (3-01) districts of Luang Namtha Province, near the Khuen, Lamet, and Khmu Rok peoples; also in Houayxay District (5-01), Bokeo Province
^ abcdeSchliesinger, Joachim (2003). Ethnic Groups of Laos, Volume 2, Profiles of Austro-Asiatic-speaking peoples. Bangkok: White Lotus. ISBN9744800364.
^Doré, Amphay. 2016. The Kassak — an ethnological and historical enigma. In Tai Culture Journal, Volume 24. Interdisciplinary Tai Studies Series. ISSN 1431-1240