Section Overview: Governance and Management of Social Policy in Asia

Rising social benefits and social protection, combined with vibrant economic development, have turned Asia into a major axis of world economic growth. Meanwhile, numerous Asian countries have been experiencing a decline in the middle class while socioeconomic polarization remains widespread in the region. Social mobility has become a significant policy topic as economic polarization creates potential for social conflicts between economic classes and the dismantling of communities. Mutual learning and convergence are expected to grow despite the unlikelihood of finding an Asian model of social policy governance. This section of the handbook explores historical evaluation, social trends, institutions, organizations, operations, financial arrangements, innovations, and evaluation practices to illuminate these trends and their implications for the region’s future.