Op-Ed: The right policies can protect the workers of Asia and the Pacific

13 Sept 11:37 Key points summarised by AI

Most of Asia-Pacific's 2.1 billion workforce lacks decent jobs, healthcare, and social protection, leading to widespread poverty, informal employment, and vulnerability to economic shocks and global challenges.
The 'Social Outlook for Asia and the Pacific' report proposes three key policy solutions to address these deficiencies and unlock worker potential.
First, implement active labor market policies with lifelong learning and skill development to facilitate a green and just transition to decent employment.
Second, extend social health protection to all workers to significantly improve health, income security, and productivity, moving beyond self-financed healthcare.
Third, establish a basic package of universal social protection schemes (child, old age, disability) to halve poverty and enhance the workforce's resilience, requiring strategic public investment and bold reforms.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.