East Asian Labor Markets and the Economic Crisis

The results of the sudden financial crisis in the east and south east of Asia were falling employment and earning opportunities - painful consequences for many families. Therefore, the World Bank and the International Labour Office collaborated to explore ways in which they could support the region's governments, employers and workers in their responses to the difficult social and economic situation. This joint study covers the Republic of Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand. It addresses labour market impacts of the crisis and the various countries' responses. Further, it identifies labour policy reforms needed for the longer term, particularly in the areas of unemployment benefits, active labour market programmes, support for vulnerable groups, and social dialogue.