Striking as it is complex, Asia represents a colorful braid of rich traditions and cultural diversity. Given its vast presence, within whose boundaries lies a significant portion of our planet's landmass, population, and resources, it is not surprising that in recent years it has rapidly developed into one of the world's most favorable frontiers for opportunity seekers, investors, and industrialists. As the new millennium prepares to move into its second decade and Asia attempts to understand the consequences of the widening economic rift between social classes, environmental overuse, high population growth, and migration, the long-term stability of its nations and the well-being of its people are approaching a tipping point.
"Lasting peace cannot be achieved unless large population groups find ways in which to break out of poverty," said Bangladesh-born Nobel Peace Prize recipient Muhammad Yunus.
Then how can we move toward implementing effective and sustainable change so that Asia's poverty divide can be bridged?
For more than 50 years, ADRA has been ministering to the needs of millions of people in Asia. Without ADRA's continuing ministry of compassion and mercy, millions of children, women, and men would be left hopeless in the depths of poverty. In countless communities, ADRA has brought hope, renewal, and stability by opening the doors to new possibilities through vocational training, school reconstruction, well building, environmental awareness, small-business creation, disease prevention, and many other creative ways. There are success stories scattered all over the land.
The following map, diagrams, and issues point to the challenges that millions of Asians face. They also highlight the manner in which ADRA is making life more prosperous—and hopeful—for thousands of them today.
Explore
Move your mouse over the map to explore how ADRA is helping in Asia. Click here to view a PDF of the map.
