CLICK – the Coalition for Lao Information, Communication and Knowledge is a network of organizations from the public, international development organization, civil society and private sector, engaged in the area of information, communication and knowledge for development. In 2010 there are 15 member organizations

CLICK goal

CLICK plays a role in human resource development through provision of information, communication and knowledge for the alleviation of poverty and development of the Lao PDR.

CLICK and the ‘Right to Information’

Information should not be seen as an ‘optional extra’ in development programmes; instead, it must be understood as a basic right of all people. The ability to send and receive information is both a means and end of development, without which all other social-economic goals will be compromised. This Right to Information is enshrined in both the national constitution and international covenants.

Article 44 of the 2003 Constitution of Lao PDR states: Lao citizens have the right and freedom of speech, press and assembly; and have the right to set up associations and to stage demonstrations which are not contrary to the laws1.

Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, signed by the Lao Government on December 2000 states: Everyone shall have the right to hold opinions without interference. Everyone shall have the right to freedom of expression; this right shall include freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any other media of his choice.

CLICK activities