Rapid changes in technology, globalization and the reorganization of business internationally have affected the global labour market. Within Asia, the initial impact of the changes in the labour market scene are likely to be mixed. Some countries like China and India are poised for sustained growth over the next decade or two. However the opportunities for many other countries are different.

Several Asian countries need to focus on basic education and skills training. Also they need credible systems of compensation and social safety nets for those who are adversely affected by economic restructuring. They need to blend efficiency with equity, providing decent work for all so that globalization becomes fair. Civil society needs to intervene and reprioritise development goals so that economic growth becomes the means to human progress and wellbeing.

The Asian Regional Congress will discuss these issues in separate tracks. Special workshops are planned to focus attention on general trends in employment, particularly in select sectors. The pre-Congress Seminar will deliberate on the relative competitiveness of China and India with special reference to concerns about labour, employment and industrial relations.

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