In Southeast Asia, legislation has been used to lay the groundwork for transitions towards the rule of law and to control political opponents or critics of the government. This article explores the impacts of legislative changes between 2010 and 2020 in Laos, especially the decrees on INGOs (2010) and Associations (2017). It also explains why Laos, a one-party state, introduced new laws for civil society, despite already having substantial control. Using qualitative research in the form of extensive interviews and a review of legislation in Laos, I argue that legislative changes across the Mekong region are used to increase control and intimidation, but the use and enforcement of the law by governments varies significantly, as do the responses and strategies of civil society. Whereas some governments use accusations of defamation to suppress their critics and intimidate their political opponents, in Laos the legislation creates red tape and delays in approval that reduce international influence. This has created an asymmetrical symbiotic relationship between the state and civil society. Key ‘work-around’ strategies include the creation of social enterprises and vocational training centres, building relationships, and focusing on wording, particularly in reports and Memoranda of Understanding.