Gender and economic security in southeast Asia

• Main Author: Nair, Tamara
• Other Authors: S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: 2022
• Subjects: Social sciences::Economic development; Economic Security; Gender
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/159987
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Economic security in southeast Asia is often connected to the survival and security of states. This macro definition can be contrasted with a more people-centred approach to economic security. This article focuses on this aspect. Of particular concern is how men and women are affected differently in unstable times. We witness this now in this global pandemic. The current economic insecurities of women are not a reflection of historical gender norms but more a creation of contemporary neoliberal economics as practised in the region. While southeast Asia does well as a global economic hub, women do not have a fair share in its gains. By examining issues of power, liberating policies and women's rights and the right to decent work, the article ultimately posits greater intervention in narrowing economic inequalities. This will be a vital step in rebuilding national economies in southeast Asia, post-pandemic and in the years to come.