Nathan London wrote two papers on the importance of rural development for the future of Asia for the Asian Development Banks eminent persons group (EPG).

Our experts

• Analyzed the role of agriculture in rural and national development at different times and in different contexts
• Analyzed constraints on improving rural livelihoods through sustainable economic development in Asia
• Developed case studies of successful and unsuccessful rural sector development programs and projects
• Proposed measures to accelerate productivity growth for rural sector development through new systems/approaches

Drawing on the experience of the past 50 years, the papers reviewed constraints and challenges, paying particular attention to the situation of rural poor and the challenge of meeting the millennium development goals to alleviate poverty; outlined a basis for a more comprehensive approach to rural development; and suggested roles for development agencies in relation to new approaches.