ADB Foresight in Action: Prospective Policy Making in Asia and the Pacific

This Asian Development Bank (ADB) report, Foresight in Action: Prospective Policy Making in Asia and the Pacific, highlights the critical role of futures thinking and foresight in navigating the complex and rapidly changing environment faced by policymakers.
Through a series of chapters, the report explores technical assistance (TA) undertaken by ADB financed under several projects but mainly under
TA 6739: Strengthening Knowledge Management and Innovation in ADB Operations in collaboration with developing member countries (DMCs)
and regional partners. These projects employ futures thinking and foresight methods and tools to address diverse challenges, ranging from justice and arbitration reform to gender equality advancement in various contexts. Each chapter outlines the methodology employed and the outcomes achieved, emphasizing the value of futures thinking and foresight in promoting strategic agility, innovation, and stakeholder engagement. Additionally, the report includes sections analyzing ADB’s foresight efforts financed under administrative budget sources, lessons learned, and recommendations for the future, as well as interviews with key stakeholders. The inclusion of these activities in the report serves to illustrate how ADB not only advises governments on futures thinking and foresight but also embodies these principles within its own organizational reforms.
This approach underscores ADB’s commitment to “walking the talk” and highlights the critical importance of learning loops and knowledge sharing from practical experience. By doing so, ADB demonstrates its dedication to continuous improvement and the effective application of foresight methodologies in both advisory and operational capacities. “Foresight in Action” demonstrates ADB’s commitment to shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for the Asia and Pacific region through proactive and forward-thinking policymaking.