20-21 April 2009, Manila, Philippines

ASEM must act now to deliver sustainable development and protection for the poorest

The global economic crisis that is taking place along-side a food, energy and an ecological crisis is driving tens of millions of people deeper into poverty, worsening inequality, significantly setting back development, as well as giving rise to human rights violations, discriminatory practices, and social unrest.  The wreckage of these crises are both long-term and of immediate consequence, both structural and conjunctural, and demand not cosmetic reforms but a deep-rooted and sustainable transformation.

There is imperative for all – governments and the peoples –   to come up with a response that is people-centered and sustainable. The policies must lead to a just, equitable and sustainable development, and more accountable and democratic institutions – based on respect for gender equality, our environment and fundamental human rights. Further, that there must be integration of social dimension in ASEM processes not only because of the dire consequences of globalization on people's lives but more importantly, because social protection is central to equitable and sustainable development.