World of HR: Employers and governments in Asia promote alternative work arrangements amid oil crisis

The war in Iran has created the largest oil transport disruption in history. As costs increase and supply remains uncertain, Asian nations with smaller oil reserves are responding by encouraging businesses and residents to change their day-to-day operations.

“They’re trying to manage the supply situation before it even comes close to hitting them,” Priyanka Kishore, director and principal economist at Asia Decoded, told Al Jazeera.

The president of the Philippines issued a directive for government employees to work four days a week, while the Federation of Free Workers and BPO Industry Employees Network encouraged remote work, Channel News Asia reported.

“We are victims of a war that is not of our choosing,” President Ferdinand Marcos said.

“As fuel prices rise, the effects quickly spread across the economy through higher transport fares, food prices, electricity costs, and other basic goods,” BPO Industry Employees Network said in a statement. “For many workers who rely on daily commuting and fixed wages, another oil price surge quickly translates into tighter household budgets and difficult trade-offs.”

Thailand issued various recommendations for businesses and individuals to help preserve energy. Not only did Caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul promote work from home options, but he also encouraged residents to take the stairs, wear short sleeves, and reduce photocopier use.

Vietnam has experienced a 32% increase in the price of gasoline since the end of February. As such, its government is also asking businesses to allow employees to work remotely, Reuters reported.

While employers in Asia are taking proactive steps to reduce the burden on workers, some experts told Business Insider they believe the US is less likely to follow suit. They said workers are more willing and able to foot the bill temporarily and probably wouldn’t quit a job because of an expensive commute.

“When gas prices spike, commuting effectively becomes a pay cut,” Jarah Euston, cofounder and chief operating officer of San Francisco-based WorkWhile, told the publication. “Employers that can offer remote work, flexible scheduling, or help coordinate carpools can make a meaningful difference.”