Coping with the Pandemic in South Asia by Making it Easier to Trade
The pandemic has underscored the importance of trade facilitation within South Asia and with the region’s neighbors.
Countries in Central and West Asia Must Avoid a COVID-19 Race to the Bottom
Governments in Central and West Asia must commit to reforms and get them right, or face a downward spiral. The costs of the crisis are already obvious in rising deficits and debt. There is no room for complacency.
COVID-19 Has Created Digital Opportunities in the Pacific
The pandemic is changing consumer behavior and expectations in the Pacific, particularly when it comes to using digital tools for financial transactions.
COVID-19 Highlights Asian Banks’ Vulnerability to U.S. Dollar Debt
The pandemic provides an opportunity for regional financial cooperation on reforms to make Asian banks more resilient to crises.
COVID-19 Highlights the Need for Safe, Nutritious, and Affordable Food
Hunger and malnutrition were an increasing problem worldwide before the pandemic. Restrictions imposed to curb disease spread have disrupted local and international food supply chains, making the problem even more urgent.
COVID-19 Increases the Urgency to Upgrade Skills and Prepare for a New World of Work
In Sri Lanka, an effort to match education with the skills needed in the workplace provides valuable lessons for the future of work.
COVID-19 is a Serious Blow to the Remittances That Millions of Families Depend Upon
The pandemic has created an unprecedented crisis for overseas workers and the remittances they send home. But with the right actions by governments, it could also be a chance for long-term change.
COVID-19 is an Opportunity to Re-Tool the Health Sector’s Energy Supply
The pandemic reinforces the need for reliable energy services to support healthcare. Clean, renewable power is a good place to start.
COVID-19 is Boosting Inequality but Government Policies can Help
The pandemic has worsened inequality on many fronts. Pro-active macroeconomic policy combined with labor retraining programs and increased social protection are needed.
COVID-19 is Changing Financial Inclusion: Can Policymakers Keep Up?
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the importance of ensuring that the poorest and most vulnerable people have access to formal financial services, given their role in supporting inclusive economic recovery and resilience.