The role of traditional skirt (Sinh) in the formation of Lao national identity in post-1975 Lao society

Lao People’s Democratic Republic was founded in 1975, and since then the government has tried to reinforce Lao national identity among its citizens. This research aims to study what kind of role the Lao female traditional skirt called the “Sinh” has played out in forming Lao national identity among the Lao people since the country’s establishment, and what kind of factors have affected the perspectives towards Sinh-wearing in Lao society. This research relies on both qualitative and quantitative methodology. The findings indicate that the Sinh has played an important role in constructing Lao women’s identity, and has had crucial role in the formation of Lao national identity since the foundation of the country. It strengthens and enhances national identity among Lao women by making them feel proud of themselves, and it undoubtedly also causes them to favor wearing it. The Sinh works as a powerful object to reinforce Lao national identity. Perspectives on the Sinh have changed through the nation’s almost half-century history in response to several sociopolitical factors, such as socialist ideology, the New Economic Mechanism, and globalization, as well as tourism expansion. More and more people, in particular among the younger generations, have perhaps become reluctant to wear it. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that Lao women cherish and preserve its traditional value. Meanwhile, foreign people also perceive the Sinh as a symbol of national culture. The key findings of this research provide a better understanding of contemporary Lao culture and society, through the development of the Sinh in concern with the attempt to strengthen Lao national identity.