ADB's Social Protection Strategy identifies common issues to be addressed in the region, but recognizes that individual countries have specific needs. Country initiatives will be developed based on the:

• country's needs
• available resources
• feasible institutional arrangements
• political economy of reforms

Selected social protection interventions include:

• providing adequate coverage
• targeting vulnerable groups and gender issues
• ensuring sustainability and good governance
• having an integrated approach

In addition, social protection measures will be included, where feasible, in ADB's regular projects and programs. For instance, components to reduce child labor may be added to education projects.

ADB designs and implement all projects in compliance with national and international labor standards. National labor standards may concern minimum wages, safe working conditions, and social security contributions. The international core labor standards relate to the eradication of forced and child labor, the elimination of workplace discrimination, and freedom of association.

ADB has been conducting social impact assessments to ensure that its projects do not adversely affect vulnerable groups. Where needed, mitigation programs, such as social safety nets, are developed to compensate affected people.