This publication identifies financial inclusion priorities to stimulate economic recovery and explores the challenges and opportunities of accelerated digital transformation. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has highlighted the vital role of financial inclusion in supporting resilience and economic recovery among the most vulnerable populations in Asia and the Pacific. This publication proposes recommendations to aid policy makers and regulators. It shares insights from the 2021 Asia-Pacific Financial Inclusion Forum, a policy initiative of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Finance Ministers' Process. It was prepared in collaboration with the APEC Business Advisory Council, the Asian Development Bank Institute, and the Foundation for Development Cooperation.

This study provides a review of infectious disease risk financing schemes to draw lessons and recommend solutions for the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) member countries. CAREC region was badly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Prearranged financing for shock events greatly enhances the cost-efficiency and effectiveness of response, but this was virtually nonexistent for infectious diseases risk prior to the COVID-19 outbreak. The study offers some recommendations to strengthen the disaster risk management strategies and public sector budget resilience of CAREC member countries.