Rethinking Regional Resilience in a Changing World

Project's Details

Title: Rethinking Regional Resilience in a Changing World

Funded by: 2025 Social Science Research Council (SSRC) Special Programmatic Grant by the Ministry of Education (MOE)

Amount: S$6,741,596

PI: Prof Khong Yuen Foong, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy

Co-PI(s) (Population and Demographic Resilience Team): Associate Professor Bussarawan Puk Teerawichitchainan, Department of Sociology & Anthropology and Steering Committee Member of CFPR, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, NUS; Prof Feng Qiushi, Department of Sociology & Anthropology and CFPR Deputy Director, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, NUS; Associate Professor Lin Weiqiang, Department of Geography and CFPR Faculty Research Affiliate, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, NUS

Project duration: 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2031

 

Abstract

Population and Demographic Resilience in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is undergoing profound yet uneven demographic transitions. While some countries are experiencing rapid population ageing and very low fertility, others continue to have relatively young and growing populations. These contrasting demographic trajectories have far-reaching implications for labor markets, migration, intergenerational support, and health and long-term care systems. They also create opportunities and vulnerabilities that extend beyond national borders, raising important questions about how Southeast Asian societies can collectively adapt to demographic change.

This project examines how Southeast Asian societies can strengthen population and demographic resilience by anticipating and adapting to demographic change while sustaining social and economic well-being across generations. It investigates changing population structures, youth and labour market transitions, migration, and the evolving capacity of families and institutions to provide care and support. Drawing on demographic analysis, comparative policy research, and quantitative and qualitative evidence, the project seeks to advance our understanding of how demographic interdependence shapes resilience at both national and regional levels.

Ultimately, the project aims to develop a conceptual and evidence-based framework for regional demographic resilience and identify opportunities for policy innovation and regional cooperation to support equitable and sustainable demographic futures in Southeast Asia.