A Validation Workshop for the Research on the Impact of COVID-19 on the Income Security of Rural Older People in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam was held in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning in a hybrid format.
The research was conducted from June 2023 to June 2024 in each respective country with funding from the ASEAN Development Fund (ADF) following the resolution of the Senior Officials Meeting on Social Welfare and Development Work Plan (2021-25).
Union Minister of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Dr Soe Win, along with personnel from relevant departments, regional and national researchers from Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, and other think tanks attended in person. Representatives from the office of the Secretary-General of ASEAN, social welfare staff, the alternate chair of the SOMSWD, focal points, and the alternate chair of the ASEAN SLOM attended virtually.
Union Minister Dr Soe Win addressed the workshop, highlighting the global challenges faced by vulnerable groups due to COVID-19, including difficulties in earning, healthcare, and social security for older people in rural areas of Southeast Asia. The research findings underscored the impacts of COVID-19 on elders in various sectors and provided recommendations for policy-making. He also urged long-term cooperation to ensure sustainable income access for elders, particularly in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam.
Deputy Director-General of International Cooperation of the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs of Vietnam, Dr Ha Thi Minh Duc, delivered a speech on behalf of the alternate chair of the SOMSWD.
Regional researcher Dr Khine Khin Phyu presented the research findings. Participants discussed the research, and the director-general of the Social Welfare Department concluded the meeting. — MNA/TMT
