Posted on 12 September 2022
Southeast Asia is one of the most economically and developmentally successful regions in the world. The Covid pandemic has had a devastating impact and will likely leave long-lasting economic, social, and political scars. Poverty will be higher, precarious employment more prevalent, basic schooling disrupted, health outcomes worsened, and businesses left financially damaged. Government budgets will also be under pressure for years to come, contending with higher spending pressures, lower revenues, and elevated debt.
There are no easy answers. The Lowy Institute has brought together six of Southeast Asia’s most interesting economic thinkers to share their perspectives on what is needed.