Globalization in Asia and the Pacific - A bittersweet experience

"Growing social and income inequalities"

Bangkok (United Nations Information Services) -- Despite the rapid pace of globalization, here in the Asia and Pacific region "many people are still excluded from its benefits," according to a theme study conducted by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific - UN ESCAP.

The document entitled, "Sustainable Social Development in a Period of Rapid Globalization: Challenges, Opportunities and Policy Options," will be presented to government ministers from 52 countries attending the 58th Commission session of UN ESCAP, to be held 16-22 May, at the United Nations Conference Centre, in Bangkok.

The report warns: "Globalization coupled with demographic dynamics, is resulting in increased exclusion and social dislocation in some situations."

"In the ESCAP region, these are reflected in deepening poverty in its different forms, growing social and income inequalities, and eruptions of social and ethnic tensions." the report states.

Changing conditions in local labour markets, an aging population, as well as a population increasingly on the move, all present "social risks and vulnerabilities" it says. Other factors resulting in this social dislocation include social and civil conflict, the prevalence of people with disability, the HIV/AIDS epidemic and fall-out from the 1997 financial crisis.

The study finds that some people are being excluded " partially or wholly from sustainable livelihood, decent employment, minimum earnings and consumption, physical and human capital development."

But not all bad..

"On a positive note," states the report, "globalization and the 'opening up' of societies have increased opportunities for people's participation and contributed to the strengthening of civil society."

Globalization has meant that people are beginning to network as never before, creating new associations and interest groups.

"Such cooperation is particularly visible in fields such as environmental protection, women's empowerment and human rights. International links are also forged between some trade unions and farmers' organizations as they collaborate to meet the challenges of possible downsides of the globalization of production."