Launch Meeting for CAREC’s New Research Initiative
On December 27, the CAREC Institute hosted a productive meeting to officially launch its new research initiative ‘Addressing Socio-Economic Inequality: Decent Work in CAREC’s Green and Digital Transition.’ The meeting gathered researchers and stakeholders to explore the objectives and methodologies for the upcoming study.
The event began with opening remarks from Dr. Roman Mogilevskii, Senior Economist at the Central and West Asia Department of the Asian Development Bank. Dr. Mogilevskii highlighted the significance of the research in advancing economic equality and fostering sustainable development across the CAREC member countries. He emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative and the shared commitment to ensuring that the benefits of economic integration are fairly distributed among all members of society.
Dr. Ilhom Abdulloev, Head of the Capacity Building Division, then presented the concept note for the research initiative. He outlined the project’s scope, objectives, and expected outcomes, providing a clear framework for the work ahead. The core issue to be addressed is the relationship between socio-economic inequality and decent work, particularly as CAREC countries navigate the green and digital transitions. These transitions, while offering significant opportunities for economic growth, also carry the risk of exacerbating existing inequalities if not properly managed. Vulnerable populations could be left behind in the face of these changes, deepening disparities between the privileged and marginalized groups.
Three key challenges were highlighted:
- Economic Disparities: The benefits of green and digital transitions may not be evenly distributed, leaving certain regions or communities behind. This uneven distribution could worsen existing socio-economic divides and hinder progress toward sustainability and digital advancement.
- Education and Skills Gaps: To succeed in emerging economies, workers need access to the right skills. However, unequal access to education and training could leave many unprepared for future job markets. Addressing the skills mismatch is crucial to ensure workforce adaptability and economic inclusion.
- Social Protection Challenges: As labor markets evolve, particularly with the rise of the gig economy, workers often lack adequate social protections. There is a pressing need for policies that provide unemployment benefits, retraining opportunities, and comprehensive support systems to help individuals navigate labor market transitions.
Dr. Abdulloev stressed that decent work is central to addressing these challenges. Decent work goes beyond mere employment; it ensures fair wages, job security, social protection, and opportunities for personal development. It is vital for poverty reduction, economic stability, and social cohesion. When individuals have access to decent work, they can escape the cycle of poverty, contribute positively to their communities, and help build a more equitable society.
Dr. Erin Watson then took the floor to present the research methodology. She outlined the approach, which includes both qualitative and quantitative analysis, data collection techniques, and engagement with key stakeholders. Dr. Watson emphasized the importance of using both traditional and non-traditional data sources to capture the complexity of labor market dynamics in the region.
The meeting concluded with a lively discussion, where participants raised questions, offered insights, and exchanged ideas related to the research objectives and methodologies. This interactive session fostered a sense of collaboration and shared commitment to advancing the goals of the initiative.