ADB’s Response to Natural Disasters and Disaster Risks - Special Evaluation Study

This evaluation assesses the relevance of ADB's Disaster and Emergency Assistance Policy and the adequacy of ADB response to disaster and disaster risks in the Asia and Pacific region.

Four of five cities classified as extreme risks among the world's fastest growing urban areas are in Asia. The region accounts for half of the estimated economic cost of disasters over the past 20 years. By one estimate, floods and landslides cost the People's Republic of China some $18 billion in 2010 alone, and Thailand an estimated $45 billion in 2011. Policymakers need to recognize that investments in disaster risk management are an essential means to sustain growth.