PH urges Asean to tackle ‘wicked problems’ threatening communities

MANILA, Philippines — Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian on Wednesday urged Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) member states to collaborate on solutions to the “wicked problems” facing the region, stressing the need for resilient and people-centered communities.

Gatchalian, who serves as chairperson of the Asean Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), made the remarks during the high-level ASCC council forum, which brought together ministers responsible for education, family, rural and social development, youth, culture, and tourism.

He noted that while improving people’s quality of life remains central to Asean’s economic policies, the region faces a “complex crossroads” with multifaceted challenges that threaten citizens’ rights. Gatchalian highlighted that climate change, weather-related hazards, and water-related risks could exacerbate poverty, displacement, and food insecurity.

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“The issues we face are not merely complex. They are what experts call ‘wicked problems,'” Gatchalian said in his keynote address. 

“Wicked problems are deeply interconnected, constantly evolving, and resistant to single-sector or short-term solutions. Each of these challenges reinforces the other,” Gatchalian added.

Gatchalian then said that these problems cannot be solved by member states alone. He added that the issues should serve as a reminder of Asean’s role in strengthening collaboration “towards a resilient and people-centered community.”

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“Thus, in today’s forum, we shall navigate together complex and multi-faceted issues and know how member states explore potential solutions to address the most pressing problems we constantly grapple with,” he said. 

He also added that the forum shall serve as a platform to answer difficult efforts, highlight Asean efforts, and share experiences and expertise, emphasizing that discussions “are a testament of our commitment to foster social inclusion, protect vulnerable groups, and promote a sense of shared identity and community.”

The ASCC council meeting and related meetings that the Philippines is hosting this week are anchored on the theme RISE, which stand for (R) Resilient and Empowered Families, (I) Inclusive Development, (S) Smart Youth and Innovation, and (E) Environmentally-sustainable and Food Secure Future. /dl