One World: One Dream

In this chapter, I consider the growing influence of China and growing numbers of Chinese in Laos and argue that managing this relationship may well be the biggest challenge facing the Lao authorities and is the most likely cause of any legitimacy crisis in Laos. Lao people are making life decisions with increasing reference to China and responding in ways that are marked by pragmatism as Chinese influence increases. Fundamentally, the rise of China in Laos is leading to a renewed sense of Laos and Laoness. This provides the Lao authorities with a renewed sense of legitimacy, as they are expected to do something for the population in response to rising adverse influences from China. Whether they will do anything meaningful to address these concerns is another question.