Macroeconomic Development and Inclusive Growth in East and Southeast Asia

East and Southeast Asia stand at the forefront of global economic dynamism, characterized by remarkable growth, industrialization, and technological advancements. The region has experienced significant economic transformations, shifting from agrarian economies to becoming major players in the global marketplace. East Asia, led by economic powerhouses such as China, Japan, and South Korea, has demonstrated resilience in the face of challenges, leveraging robust macroeconomic policies and technological innovation. Southeast Asia, with its diverse economies, is witnessing rapid urbanization and industrialization, contributing to its emergence as a key player in the global supply chain and geopolitics in the region. 

Nonetheless, the economic growth in both regions has also presented complex issues, including informal economic activities, income inequality, and the need for inclusive development. Against this backdrop, this webinar series aims to explore and contextualize the ongoing economic development challenges and opportunities in East and Southeast Asia, with a focus on the historical context of economic transitions, macroeconomic strategies, and the imperative of inclusive growth and poverty reduction.

Webinar Topics:

Session 1: Post-Keynesian Perspectives: Macroeconomic Strategies in Economic Development

Prof. Louis-Philippe Rochon, Full Professor of Economics, Laurentian University, Canada

April 20, 2024, 9:00 PM GMT+7

• Overview of macroeconomic policies during transformation periods.
• Evaluating the role of fiscal and monetary policies in fostering economic stability.
• Case studies illustrating successful macroeconomic strategies in East and Southeast Asia.
• Analyzing how post-Keynesian perspectives can inform economic policies.
• Addressing challenges and opportunities through a post-Keynesian lens.

Session 2: Aggregate Demand Policy in Developing Economies

Prof. Peter Skott, Professor Emeritus, University of Massachusetts Amherst, the United States

May 15, 2024, 9:00 PM GMT+7

• Structural transformation problems
• Labor markets and inflation
• Implications for sustainable development

Target Audience: This webinar series is tailored for young scholars, economists, practitioners, and policymakers interested in gaining a comprehensive understanding of economic development in East and Southeast Asia, particularly in the context of historical economic transitions.

Expected Outcomes: Participants will gain insights into the historical context of economic development in the region and how it influences present-day challenges and opportunities, which they can increase more knowledge by exploring macroeconomic strategies, post-Keynesian perspectives, and inclusive development principles. 

Note: The webinar series schedule, speakers, and specific content may be adjusted based on the evolving economic landscape and emerging issues in the East and Southeast Asian regions, and challenges in implementing the project.

Contact us for more information: Please feel free to contact us at eastasia[at]youngscholarsinitiative.org if you have any questions regarding this webinar series.