3rd Southeast Asia Economic Research and Development Conference

Southeast Asia stands at the crossroads of dynamic economic progress and significant socio-economic challenges. As one of the most vibrant and diverse regions globally, it has achieved remarkable strides in economic growth, regional integration, and poverty reduction. However, this growth has been accompanied by rising inequality, environmental degradation, technological disruptions, and increasing vulnerabilities to global uncertainties and climate change. This raises critical questions: How can Southeast Asia balance its rapid economic growth with inequality, ecological change, and digital transformation? Furthermore, how does research on Southeast Asia help us to understand the socio-economic rules that govern the world?

Addressing these polycrises requires innovative, multidimensional solutions that transcend traditional economic paradigms. The 3rd Southeast Asia Economic Research and Development Conference serves as a platform for young scholars, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to convene, exchange perspectives, and propose actionable solutions tailored to the region’s unique context. 

Adopting an interdisciplinary and pluralist approach, the conference aims to foster dialogue that integrates economic theory, empirical analysis, and practical policy interventions. By leveraging insights from various disciplines and methodologies, participants will contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex interactions shaping Southeast Asia’s socio-economic landscape.

The conference seeks to inspire bold and collaborative research that rethinks growth, sustainability, and equity within the region. The papers presented will not only enrich academic discourse but also provide a foundation for evidence-based policymaking to support inclusive and sustainable development in Southeast Asia. We welcome submissions that explore, but are not limited to, the following themes:

• Economic growth, inequality, and inclusion
• Development and sustenance of the social protection and social security system
• Health and demographic transition
• Urban and regional economics 
• Sustainability, ecology, natural resource management and climate resilience
• Food security and agrarian transformation
• Digital transformation, automation,  and innovation
• Regional integration and trade
• Governance, institutions, and economic policy
• Labour economics and gender
• History of economic thought, economic history and path-dependency
• Interdisciplinary and pluralist approaches in economic analysis

Accepted papers may be considered for publication in a journal special issue (Scopas) or as part of an edited book in an internationally established publication house.

Conference Format

The conference will feature plenary sessions followed by parallel sessions. All papers presented in the parallel sessions will undergo a refereeing process before being accepted for presentation. In addition, case studies focusing on any of the conference’s sub-themes will be considered for inclusion in panel discussions, facilitating interactive engagement. Esteemed scholars will be invited to participate in the panel discussions, offering insightful perspectives on economic thought, structural change, and macroeconomics.

Participation, Travel, and Accommodation Expenses

Participation in the conference is free for authors of selected papers. We are pleased to offer a limited number of travel and accommodation support grants to PhD students and early career scholars within 5 years of their PhD. To be considered for such grants, please indicate your interest and eligibility in your application.

Important Dates

1. Deadline for abstract submission: July 15, 2025.
2. Notifications of acceptance will be sent out in the fourth week of July.
3. Deadline for submission of full papers: September 30, 2025.
4. Conference dates: October 30-31, 2025.

Contact

All communication regarding the conference should be directed to saerdconf@gmail.com or check the updated information online at https://saerdconf.github.io/.