Pushing the Boundaries for Women
Fifteen years ago I was working for a nongovernment organization (NGO) in Bangladesh documenting stories of training and economic empowerment of communities. A common recurring theme in virtually all the communities was the gender stereotyping in skills training programs.
Unlocking Myanmar’s Potential
Economic and political transition is never an easy process for any country and it will be no different for Asia’s fast awakening tiger, Myanmar.
Four Things International Youth Day Summit Taught Us About Social Media
In recent years, the rise of social media has been ceaseless and rapid. It has managed to create a universe of its own—one that often leaves governments, organizations, and corporations alike continuously striving to keep up.
Why Partnering with the Private Sector is Key to Inclusive Growth
Over the past couple of decades, no one can deny that the Asia and Pacific region has represented a remarkable success story. Absolute poverty levels have fallen significantly and the region is on course to achieve a number of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
To Invest, or Not to Invest? That is the Problem in Myanmar
Myanmar opened a new chapter in its history in November 2010 when it adopted its open-economy policy. Since then, an impressive array of reforms have been implemented. However, Myanmar’s sustainable and inclusive growth depends on it maintaining this momentum during its transition —particularly inflows of foreign direct investment.
Solving the Regional and Global Trade Jigsaw Puzzles
The rise of mega-regionals such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) suggest that the world trade system is fragmenting to appear more like a jigsaw puzzle than a spaghetti bowl. How do we resolve the growing mess?
Impacts of Increasing Integration: Challenges in Trade, Finance and the Environment
Regional cooperation and integration (RCI) has played an important role in Asia’s growth and development, and will have to play a role in managing the consequences of this ascendancy going forward.
Asian Countries Need to Work Together to Move Forward
Regional cooperation and integration is crucial for Asia and the Pacific to reach its economic and social development goals.
How Social Enterprises Contribute to Training and Job Creation: Examples from the United Kingdom and Asia
Social enterprises play an important role in building human capital and creating a more inclusive labor market. They also inject new talent into the services sectors that face a growing shortage of appropriately skilled workers.
Feeding the Millions in Southeast Asia
The Association of Southeast Asian nations has introduced the regional rice reserve, the multi-stakeholder rice trade forum, and market information and sharing. These approaches have the potential of building confidence in rice trade and helping people get fed.