Washington, DC - Sombath Somphone was abducted on the evening of December 15, 2012 from a police checkpoint in Vientiane. The United States remains deeply concerned over Sombath’s fate and the message it sends to other members of civil society who strive to improve the lives of their countrymen.

Our thoughts are with Sombath’s family, friends, and the countless others who have been inspired by his exemplary leadership and devotion to his country. We welcome statements from the Lao President, Prime Minister, and others expressing their concern over Sombath’s disappearance and reiterate our call for the Lao government to conduct a full, thorough, and transparent investigation, and to take all measures necessary to resolve the case.