Asia is undergoing rapid and historic change. Economic growth is unprecedented — but the benefits of that growth are unequally distributed within and between countries.
Although economic growth has reduced poverty in much of Asia, rural and minority populations still endure hardship. The region also suffers from environmental degradation, gender-based violence and an economy increasingly based on informal employment. In addition, while maternal mortality has declined in the region overall, it remains high in low- and middle-income countries.
These pressures strain the infrastructure and fray human relations, ultimately hampering the region’s development.
Research focus
While governments need innovative policies based on solid research, the capability to provide these policies varies from country to country.
To improve people’s lives in local communities, we support researchers who are seeking innovative solutions for Asia’s agricultural, environmental, technological, social and economic challenges. We also promote knowledge sharing so that the evidence generated by our research partners goes further and accomplishes more by influencing development policies and informing solutions.
We recognize that the impacts of climate change and persistent inequalities pose significant barriers to the attainment of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals in the region and globally. IDRC’s 10-year blueprint for action, Strategy 2030, reflects our ambition to respond to those two issues while focusing on climate-resilient food systems, global health, education and science, democratic and inclusive governance, and sustainable inclusive economy.
Through our strategic investments and knowledge sharing, we are helping local actors play a more effective role in solving regional challenges, and thus contribute to building a more sustainable and inclusive world.
Regional office
Our regional office for Asia is located in New Delhi, India. It serves development researchers and institutions in 18 countries.
Afghanistan
Bangladesh
Bhutan
Cambodia
China
China
India
Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia
Laos
Malaysia
Malaysia
Mongolia
Myanmar
Nepal
Pakistan
Philippines
Philippines
Philippines
Philippines
Philippines
Philippines
Philippines
Sri Lanka
Thailand
Viet Nam
Learn more
Assisting post-earthquake rehabilitation in Nepal
Safer public spaces for women and girls
New Delhi, India
Phone: (+91-11) 2461-9411
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