The Asia context in 2024 In relation to the INSP!R network issues

It is increasingly alarming that trade unions and civil society  organizations (CSOs) across Asia are facing shrinking democratic space, often with serious consequences: policymaking now bypasses tripartite mechanisms and other forums where unions and CSOs once structurally engaged with the government. To remain effective, we must adjust our advocacy—strengthening ties with like minded CSOs and trade unions, presenting ourselves as partners in the shared pursuit of justice and prosperity, raising awareness about surveillance and safe communication, adapting our phrasing on social media, ensuring compliance with ever stricter bureaucratic requirements and national laws, and seizing every available channel for social dialogue. At the ASEAN level, authoritarian governance, widening post COVID  wealth gaps, and polarization along racial or religious lines prioritize economic priorities rather than human rights. Many governments now woo foreign investors while tightening laws that stifle dissent and threaten activists, leaving unions and CSOs with shrinking room for advocacy.

In this environment, collaboration, careful messaging, and evidence based policy proposals are essential. From 2022-2024, INSP!R Asia produced several position papers on current issues like climate justice or digital platform workers, forged regional and global alliances, hosted major events, and championed social protection rights. However, inadequate funding for sustained engagement—continuous outreach to decision makers, data driven argumentation, and physical presence at key meetings—remains our greatest obstacle. Recognized by the ILO, ITUC Asia Pacific, and other regional CSOs, INSP!R Asia has played pivotal roles at the G20/L20/C20, the ASEAN People’s Forum, and the UN Global Accelerator on Employment and Social Protection for a Just Transition, while supporting trade union partners at the ITUC and ILO, including during the International Labour Conference in promoting relevant conventions and recommendations. Securing additional resources will allow us to amplify this impact, strengthen our network, and advance progressive policies locally, regionally, and globally.