Dispatches FM

The Disappearance of Sombath Somphone in Laos - 10 Years Later

Shui Meng Ng shares the harrowing story of Sombath Somphone's disappearance 10 years ago in Vientiane, Laos. Sombath Somphone was a prominent member of Lao civil society. His legacy lives on a decade after his abduction and disappearance from a busy Vientiane street in 2012.

Getting Inked in Chiang Mai, Thailand

An experiment in the use of sound while getting inked at Wallsnut Home Tattoo Studio in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

The Campaign to Free Muay in Laos

Houayheuang Xayabouly, known as Muay, is a Lao environmentalist, and mother, convicted of spreading anti-state propaganda with a Facebook Live video. Muay, 33, is entering her fourth year in prison. She may be released in 2023, but the campaign to "Free Muay" has not let up over the past three years.

Thailand Bans Viral Rap Song Calling for 'Reform' to Monarchy

Rap Against Dictatorship is a Thai hop hop group that blends music and activism. Since its first track dropped in 2018 "Prathet Ku Mee [What My Country's Got]" its work has been closely scrutinized and monitored by the authorities. Its most recent track "Patiroop [Reform]" led to the Thai Constitutional Court ruling that the song must be taken off the internet or the group would face criminal charges.