Lotteries are an integral part of many cultures around the world. For instance, in the US there are state-run lotteries offering cash prizes; Laos also has a national lotterized that’s run by its government; but their dubious origins have raised some concerns regarding their integrity; some individuals alleging officials manipulate results of these lotteries have raised suspicion.

According to an official from Lao’s Ministry of Finance who spoke with RFA’s Lao Service, the government has taken measures to curb shenanigans by amending winnings rules and reporting requirements. These include reducing from three weekly drawings down to one weekly one and tightening reporting requirements on shenanigans. Furthermore, according to this official, they plan to work closely with Public Security Department of Laos so all incidents of shenanigans are handled appropriately.

Early this year, suspicions were cast upon the Laos lottery after four consecutive drawings featuring Felis catus-related numbers (feline-associated numbering system). Some called for its immediate suspension while others wondered whether officials were blocking certain numbers to ensure prize money didn’t end up going to foreign companies.

In October, another controversy surfaced when the winning number 509 mysteriously vanished from all tickets purchased on the day of the drawing and only appeared as five on one ticket purchased as of that afternoon – even though many believed players would choose this number given its association with buffaloes as symbols of good luck and thus choosing it over other options. But shortly before its return was scheduled to occur.

So as not to continue this pattern of misconduct, a new task force was formed in order to investigate complaints and investigate all drawings since then for irregularities or discrepancies, and take appropriate actions in order to restore faith in the lottery, according to official statements by ministry representatives.

Laos prohibits gambling as an activity; however, land-based casinos have been permitted in Special Economic Zones around the country and accept players from Laos with various casino games available. Furthermore, many online casinos also accept Laos residents allowing those looking for fun without risking their finances to play and gamble responsibly.

This talk will examine the complexity and meaning of Laos’ state lottery for people on the ground. Charles (Chip) Zuckerman is an anthropologist specializing in Laos who recently conducted his dissertation research on moral and social dimensions of gambling in Luang Prabang before turning it into a book. Here he will describe how Laos has rationalized lottery as an economic activity which furthers socialist goals.