Written by The Banking Post
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has been advised to update its health strategy to better address the region’s evolving health challenges, according to a new evaluation by its Independent Evaluation Department (IED).
The review, covering 2011–2024, commended ADB for its swift response during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting its ability to mobilize resources and coordinate across sectors. However, it stressed that legacy policies and operational approaches are no longer sufficient to cope with rising noncommunicable diseases, growing demand for affordable universal healthcare, and aging populations.
“ADB’s operational responsiveness during the pandemic was evident, but the changing landscape demands a clear, updated framework to guide future action,” the evaluation noted.
The report emphasized that despite significant health gains in child and maternal mortality reduction and expanded immunization, the pandemic exposed deep vulnerabilities and inequalities across the region.
To remain effective, ADB was urged to sharpen its strategic direction, improve country-level diagnostics, and strengthen knowledge sharing. With these steps, the bank could play a more decisive role in building resilient, modern health systems and advancing long-term health outcomes across Asia and the Pacific.
