ASEAN Socio-cultural Plan To Uplift 680 Million People Through Inclusive, Resilient Community-building
The plan builds on the foundation laid by the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Blueprint 2025 and responds to emerging challenges such as ageing populations, digital exclusion, public health threats, climate change and widening social inequality.
'It also recognises the opportunities arising form emerging megatrends such as digital technology advancement and green and blue economies,' according to the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future document.
Among the key goals of the ASCC plan is to build a people-centred and interconnected community through equitable digital access, greater regional mobility, and enhanced cooperation in education, lifelong learning and social protection.
The strategy also envisions a caring and inclusive ASEAN that promotes shared prosperity by investing in gender equality, women's empowerment, and stronger protections for migrant workers, persons with disabilities, and the elderly.
Human security and resilience feature prominently, with ASEAN pledging to address mental health, ageing, and natural disasters through partnerships between governments, civil society and the private sector.
'Youth engagement is a high priority. The plan outlines measures to equip young people to lead in innovation, climate action and entrepreneurship, while promoting active participation in ASEAN's socio-economic development.
'Women's empowerment is another central focus. ASEAN seeks to increase female representation in decision-making, develop gender-responsive policies, and invest in care infrastructure to reduce unpaid work and improve well-being,' the document read.
The ASCC Plan also highlights the importance of preserving ASEAN's rich cultural heritage. It seeks to strengthen regional identity through arts, education, digital platforms and community-based initiatives, particularly in underserved areas.
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