The long-term strategic framework will guide ADB operations in 2008–2020
ADB formally began a comprehensive review of its long-term strategic framework to keep the institution relevant and effective as a regional development bank. It convened a panel of six eminent persons in 2006 to provide insights on the future of the region and the role of ADB.
The Eminent Persons Group’s report, commissioned by President Kuroda and made public in March 2007, envisioned a dramatically transformed Asia by 2020: most countries would have conquered widespread absolute poverty but would be facing formidable development challenges, stemming largely from unprecedented growth and economic successes.
The report urged ADB to become better prepared to help members meet these challenges by adopting three mutually complementary strategic directions—inclusive growth, environmentally sustainable growth, and shift from a national to a regional and global focus. To become more responsive and enhance institutional effectiveness, the report also urged ADB to be more selective in its operations and to streamline its business processes further.
Internal and external stakeholders were consulted extensively on the way forward for ADB. Several in-house studies, notably on inclusive growth, and a special evaluation study by the Operations Evaluation Department on the implementation of the long-term strategic framework (2001–2015) during 2001–2006, were produced to aid discussion and build consensus. A retreat was organized in October with ADB’s Board of Directors and Management to deliberate on the new long-term strategic framework until 2020 and on mea-sures to enhance ADB’s institutional effectiveness.
The vision of an Asia and Pacific region free of poverty continues to be the foremost aspiration of ADB’s member countries. Preliminary analysis and consultations, however, have revealed the changing nature of poverty in the region and the need to place much greater and concerted attention on inclusive growth: creating opportunities through economic growth and private sector development, and giving all citizens more chances to participate in and benefit from growth. The increasing importance of environmental sustainability and the role of regional cooperation and integration have also been noted.
Under the new long-term strategic framework to be adopted in 2008, ADB will define its role and strategic directions to guide operations in 2008–2020, with strong emphasis on achieving development impact in developing member countries in association with a wide range of partners within and outside the region.
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