More than 23 million could lose their jobs in Asia this year as the global financial crisis batters the region. The crisis could also slow rural-to-urban migration, with many facing the prospect of returning to low-paid agricultural jobs as factories and firms lay off workers. A dramatic increase in working poverty is projected. The projections carry with them a real risk that children may be forced to withdraw from school in order to work and support their families. The ILO says the substantial growth slowdown taking place is likely to lead to stagnant or falling real wages, with the potential for increased incidences of wage related disputes. The region is at the tipping point of seeing social unrest explode into the streets, as the jobless and marginalised demand greater government action. Migrant workers with short-term contracts as well as women working in small factories and firms are particularly vulnerable, says this report.