Lead exposure remains a significant public health threat in Asia and the Pacific, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The global effort to address lead poisoning must focus on stricter regulations, enhanced healthcare capacity, and coordinated international action to protect vulnerable populations.

We must address the structural causes of inequalities, which go beyond globalization in both the developed and the developing world.

Recently, someone from one of our developing member countries commented that ADB is too small, slow and self-centered. This assessment might sound harsh, but the numbers speak for themselves.

Thomas Piketty, a young French economist, has redefined the relationship between capital and inequalities in his book Capital in the Twenty-First Century.

The Post-2015 development agenda is leaning toward a goal of eradicating absolute poverty by 2030. The World Bank’s recently approved corporate strategy has the same goal. I believe, however, that this target is absolutely meaningless for our region, Asia and the Pacific.

I do not have a birth certificate. Even though I was born in the capital city of the biggest province in India, my birth was never registered. Luckily, I went to school where they recorded my date of birth and my high school certificate gave me an identity. Now, I also have a passport and I can prove who I am.

Economic growth is crucial for poverty reduction, but its impact varies across different settings, highlighting the need for inclusive growth strategies.

The significant increase in life expectancy and decrease in fertility rates in Asia present a challenge due to the lack of support systems for the aging population. We need to address these demographic changes, including revising policies like the retirement age to better support the elderly.

The debate over a proposed ban on oversized soda drinks triggers a broader discussion on obesity and public health.

A new institution, offering greater development assistance, is badly needed.

Is the G-20 losing its way? The G-20 played a critical role in leading the world out the financial crisis in 2008-9. It was decisive, united and effective in dealing with that crisis. However, it has since lacked that that level of vitality.

Not only does social protection promote economic growth; in fact, growth cannot be sustained without strong social protection.

The MDGs represent the global vision of reducing poverty in its various dimensions. We need continued attention to all the goals, since we can hardly declare “mission accomplished” in any of the dimensions of poverty they seek to address.

Most definitions do not fully capture the concept of inclusive growth. To be useful, such a definition must include several key elements.