"UNESCAP's 2015 survey forecasting economic and social prospects for the Asia-Pacific region will greatly assist policymakers in the region", according to Professor Mark McGillivray from the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation.
"This is due in large part to the adoption of a new multidimensional index, which will allow policymakers to better review and monitor progress on inclusive growth", he said.
Professor McGillivray launched the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) 2015 survey in Australia this month. It is the organisation's flagship publication.
The survey found that, while developing economies in the Asia-Pacific region continue to fare well, structural weaknesses constrain growth prospects. UNESCAP highlighted the need for more inclusive economic growth to ensure sustainable prosperity. "The Survey stands to make a substantial impact by highlighting this key policy issue for countries in this region", Professor McGillivray said.
In addition to launching the survey, Professor McGillivray was part of an eminent group of policymakers, scholars and development practitioners who acted as external peer reviewers for the 2015 survey.
"The Survey's focus on inclusive growth aligns with research undertaken at ADI which looks at disparities in living standards between various social groups in countries in the Asia Pacific region and identifies the drivers of these disparities and policies that can sustainably reduce them. The survey acts to reinforce our research's relevance and importance", Professor McGillivray said.
Contact: Rebecca Coutts-Buys
Phone: 61 3 9244 6658