Action For Economic Reforms (AER)

Action for Economic Reforms (AER) is a Philippine non-government organization engaged in research and advocacy. It was founded in 1996 by a group of progressive scholars as an independent, reform-oriented and activist policy group. AER works on macroeconomic issues, with an emphasis on fiscal policy and tax policy and administration, and looks at their impact on equity, poverty reduction, and sustainability. As part of its macroeconomic intervention, AER addresses exchange rate, monetary, and trade issues. AER likewise concerns itself with creating the conditions for long-term growth. In this context, AER gives attention to the role of institutions. It has pursued advocacy on building state capacity that will enable markets and correct both market and government failures. A key aspect of the work on institutions is the promotion of transparency, especially pushing for a Freedom of Information law in the Philippines. AER also forges strong links with civil society organizations, legislators and other government officials, as well as with technocrats and academics towards building alliances to secure progressive reforms.